Event Notes: Vietnam Avoids Penalty For Pulling Out As Asian Games Host

Vietnam "will not face any penalty for withdrawing from hosting the 2019 Asian Games." Olympic Council of Asia President Sheikh Ahmad Al Fahad Al Sabah "made the comment after a Vietnamese delegation expressed regret for the withdrawal during a visit to the body’s headquarters in Kuwait." He said, “Our unity and solidarity are very unique -- there isn’t any kind of penalty, but support and understanding” (AFP, 4/24). ... The National Olympic Committee of Cambodia will host the Kingdom’s full-distance marathon and half marathon around the Angkor temple complex in Siem Reap on Aug. 17, "following a deal struck with the Royal government to help address a recent slump in visitors to the historic site." About 400 participants from 24 nations "have already registered online and main sponsors have been confirmed as Pepsi, Angkor Beer and Smart mobile" (PHNOM PENH POST, 4/24).