Almost 5000 entrants in 64 events
THAT time has rolled around again — the New Zealand Masters Games will begin today and include everything from archery to wine options.
The extensive schedule of events caters for those aged 18 through to some in their 90s.
Now in its 31st year, the country’s largest multisport event — held in Dunedin and Whanganui alternately — has a record number of more than 870 footballers entered.
There are several new events — cornhole, a gutbuster stairracing challenge and top team (a team challenge competition based on the popular 1980s television series Top Town) which will be held in the Games Hub in the Octagon. The halfmarathon returns.
“On the eve of the New Zealand Masters Games, we’re extremely excited about this year’s event – the largest multisport event in New Zealand,” Games manager Vicki Kestila said.
“This year, we have a huge range of competitors — from former Olympians and professional athletes to longstanding and passionate amateurs who come year after year to compete and share in the camaraderie of the Games.
‘‘We have ages from our youngest competitor at 18 right through to competitors in their 90s, which is all in keeping with the fact that you don’t need to be an elite athlete to compete and you don’t need to qualify.
“Our numbers are up on the last Games held here in Dunedin and we’re thrilled to be delivering on our targets and creating what will be a fabulous week of sports, entertainment and fun.”
Close to 5000 competitors — an increase of 7% — are entered in this year’s 64 sporting or fun events with a range of sports for both summer and winter codes.
After a false start to summer it is hoped the event, which runs through to February 9, will be blessed by good weather.
Held in the same week as Dunedin hosts Elton John, the first Highlanders game of the season and just before the Queen and Adam Lambert concert, the city is set for a major influx of visitors who will be welcomed in the Games hub.
The hub had previously been based at the University Union but has moved to the Octagon where some events will also take place.
The opening ceremony tonight will include an official opening of the event by Sports Minister Grant Robertson, a lighting of the official flame of the Games and a sports parade attended by this year’s Games ambassadors — former Silver Fern Jodi Brown and former New Zealand wicketkeeper and national cricket coach Warren Lees — alongside other guests, officials and most importantly, competitors.
“We’re thrilled to have Jodi and Warren as this year’s ambassadors.”
“As athletes who have dedicated years to their chosen sports as players and supporters, they are an inspiration to our competitors about what can be achieved — whether it’s an overall win, a personalbest or just to have fun.”
The Games will start with a bang as two of the leading sports by numbers, football and netball, start at Logan Park and the Edgar Centre.
Athletics will also take place at the Caledonian Ground.