City of Greater Geelong, Victoria, will host a world tour table tennis event this winter, which is expected to be broadcast to an international audience of more than 100 million viewers.
The Australian Open of Table Tennis is one of six platinum series events (like a grand slam) of the World Tour of the International Table Tennis Federation. It will be held at the Geelong Arena from 24 to 29 July.
Geelong has secured the annual event for the next three years.
Mayor Bruce Harwood, said, “Geelong has a reputation as an outstanding host of world class sporting events, and this is yet another chance to showcase our beautiful region to a huge international TV audience.”
Up to 200 athletes from more than 20 countries including Australia, China, Japan, Korea, Germany and France will compete for $400,000 in prize money in singles, doubles and mixed doubles events.
The competition will be broadcasted to more than 80 countries, with more than 100 million viewers expected in China alone.
“Table tennis is an extremely popular sport, particular in Asia, so all eyes will be on us. It will have a tremendous knock-on effect for local tourism, as viewers see the amazing natural scenery we have to offer.”
The event will include two community engagement days on 26 and 27 July, where children in primary schools and people with disabilities will be able to take part.
Event legacies will include table tennis tables and equipment brought in for the event to be shared with clubs and schools.
