SLT, Mobitel boosts adventure tourism with Raid Amazon

Mobitel, the National Mobile Service Provider is proud to announce its sponsorship of Raid Amazon 2008, the world's biggest women's multi-sport adventure race to be held in January 2008.

This is set to further promote the country as a tourist destination, catering to persons with a wide range of interests, especially for the sporty traveller, with the excitement of competition and sports alongside its nature, culture, adventure and the sea.

Over 200 women, making up teams of three, are set to participate in various events over a period of six days in Dambulla. This ranges from biking, canoeing, jungle courses and other outdoor activities.

CEO, Mobitel Suren Amarasekera said: "We are proud to be the communication provider for Raid Amazon 2008, which is being held in Sri Lanka for the second time since its launch in 2004.

We have joined hands with the Sri Lanka Tourist Board in order to support this event, as it will improve tourism in the country as well as showcasing what a great destination the country is to the rest of the world. Sri Lanka Telecom (SLT) will be offering a total communications solution for the event.

Commenting on the significance of the event, Chief Marketing Officer, Sri Lanka Telecom Priyantha Perera said: "SLT takes great pride in providing a total telecommunications solution for this prestigious event, which will uplift tourism in the country. We have always extended our support to any event that will enhance the image of Sri Lanka."

ZBO, the organiser of the internationally acclaimed event is holding it in Sri Lanka for the second time. Speaking on the support Mobitel is extending towards the event, Chairman, ZBO Alexander Debanne and a radio television personality in France said: "We appreciate the continued support of SLT and Mobitel, especially in improving the logistics of the event.

They are providing us with internet connectivity and mobile phones with connections, enabling us to be able to communicate with one another through the course of the race as well as be reachable at all times.

SLT and Mobitel will also be providing us with high-level technology and as a sponsor of the event for a second time, we have complete confidence in their ability to provide us with the level of technology we need to make this event a success."

Chairman, Sri Lanka Tourism Promotion Bureau Renton de Alwis said: "This could not have come at a better time for Sri Lanka. Through this, the country will be getting the opportunity to host this event as well as the country being recognized as a sporting destination.