Knysna favoured to be base camp for France and Denmark – Knysna Tourism

Knysna is the number one choice for both France and Denmark as a base camp destination during the 2010 FIFA World Cup™.

France listed Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa as their number one choice, and Denmark Simola Country Estate. CEO of Knysna Tourism, Shaun van Eck, said that this confirms once again that Knysna is a destination of choice. “We are a small town and to have two teams nominating us as a base camp destination of choice is a feather in our cap. In addition to these teams, Spain is the number three choice for Pezula (Denmark is number two), and we have just had a visit from a Russian delegation. It seems likely that Knysna will definitely host at least one team.”

At a special Council meeting held on Monday 19 October, the Knysna Council voted in favour of upgrading Loerie Park Stadium if Knysna is selected as a base camp destination. Mayor Eleanore Bouw-Spies said that it will influence the teams’ final decision after the final draw on the 4th of December. “The commitment by Council will obviously boost our chances as a host destination. The teams will need a public viewing field and Loerie Park was the obvious choice. It will also be a fantastic legacy to sport in the area to have a top class facility post 2010.”

France has not qualified yet and their final qualifying games are taking place on Saturday the 14th and Wednesday the 18th of November against Ireland.  “If they qualify, the chances are good that they will be based in Knysna. I think the town should get behind them and show our support – dress up in red, white and blue and send them our best regards.”

The municipality is in the process of appointing eight task teams to deal with 2010 related projects going forward. Each task team will include a Councillor, a municipal official and at least two appropriately skilled members of the public.

The teams will only confirm their final base camp destinations after the final draw on the fourth of December. Van Eck supported the Mayor’s call for support of France in their qualifying matches. “It will be a major scoop for Knysna in terms of international exposure if France is based at Pezula, and I urge the town to get behind them. Let us show them that they will be welcome!”