A few data to evidence the extent of interest in the Masters World Championships in Balatonfüred and Budapest commencing on 7th August, in 80 days: almost 16 000 sport entry requests have been received for swimming events, 1200 water polo players will definitely play in Hajós Alfréd National Swimming Stadium, the arena established on the City Park Lake in the heart of Budapest will feature nearly 400 synchronised swimmers and the number of divers is approaching 200.

There are some highly popular programmes such as 400 m swimming events and the 50 m freestyle, and it is interesting to note that concerning men’s water polo the 50+ category is most attractive.

It is important that athletes’ registration in the FINA GMS system (General Management System) is valid only if the status is „submitted”. Those who are planning to participate but have not yet finished their registration will not be entitled to compete after the limit – set by the Organising Committee - is reached.

Registration and free entry

Entry to the events of the 17. FINA Masters World Championships will be free of charge, however, in certain venues including the Danube Arena as well as Hajós Alfréd Swimming Stadium spectators shall obtain free registration tickets because of the intense interest in certain events thanks to –among others – the Hungarian water polo team comprised of iconic Hungarian Olympic champions. Registration is necessary for safety and disaster management reasons. The Organising Committee will provide further information about registration on the official communication platforms of the World Championships later.

The GMS system allows for reserving the so called „Accompanying person” accreditation, as well, which costs 40 USD. Why is it a good idea to obtain such accreditation?

Firstly, because this way entry to events is easier, the Organising Committee provides reserved grandstand lines in highly attended venues for accreditation holders. Secondly, the following services will be available during the Masters World Champs:

– use of public transport in the city free of charge – courtesy of BKK Centre for Budapest Transport,

– discounted accommodation fees in hotels recommended by the Organising Committee,

– return train services free of charge from Budapest to Balatonfured to the open water swimming site.

The Organising Committee is awaiting athletes and their attendants at the 17. Masters World Championships between 7th and 20th August.

Source: masters.fina-budapest2017.com