(Beijing, March 14) China has not the hosting privilege to choose its group or rival in the upcoming Olympic water polo draw, Li Xiangdong, competition director of the "Good Luck Beijing" 2008 China Water Polo Open said yesterday.

Li made the remarks during a pre- tournament press conference for the 2008 Water Polo China Open held at the newly inaugurated Ying Tung Natatorium in Beijing.

The draw of Olympic water polo is slated for March 22 at 10 am in Swissotel Beijing, being the first draw to be announced for the 2008 Olympic Games.

According to Li Xiangdong, representatives and players from the twelve men's teams and eight women's teams will also grace the ceremony, which is to determine where each team is placed in its respective group.

Li noted that "The draw will be held in a complete open and fair environment" and China wouldn't benefit from its identity as the host of the Games.