Lovable and friendly Daegu 2011 Official Mascot has a name - "Sarbi"


                                                    

On 20th July 2010, the Organizing Committee (LOC) for the IAAF World Championships Daegu 2011 announced
the name of its Official Mascot - 'Sarbi'.  'Sarbi' was chosen for the simplicity and cuteness in portraying the
lovable mascot, out of the enthusiastic 1,725 entries in a 15-day nationwide Mascot Naming Contest in April.

'Sarbi' is an ancient nickname for the 'Sapsaree', a canine breed that originated from Daegu and its regions. The
'Sapsaree' is believed to ward off bad luck ('Sapsa' means 'shoving away bad luck') and will therefore bring
auspiciousness to the Championships. It is categorised as Natural Monument No. 368 in Korea.

The name 'Sarbi' is a play of words from 'Sapsaree'.  'Sar' is used to represent the expulsion of misfortune and
'Bi' is used as a cute and friendly way of representing 'saree'.  The Official Mascot was unveiled on 14th April
2010, in celebration of the '400 days to go' countdown event.

'Sarbi' the lovable mascot will embark on a nationwide mascot roadshow, as part of the LOC's promotional plans
ahead of the Championships.  Tickets to the Championships will be launched one year prior on 27th August
2010.  For more information, please visit www.daegu2011.org.