Nelson to host Masters Games

Thousands of athletes will descend on Nelson in the coming years, with the city being awarded hosting rights for the 2011 and 2013 South Island Masters Games.

Up to 3000 athletes are expected to attend the event each time, competing across almost 50 sports including mountain biking, yachting, running, weightlifting and indoor rowing.

More recreational sports such as darts and cards will also be on offer.

Steering committee spokesman Colin Aitken, who has competed in recreational walking, table tennis and golf croquet, said hosting the games was a big opportunity for the region.

"If we can capture people from Marlborough up into the lower half of the North Island, the West Coast, I think we could have a mighty games here."

The chance to host the games arose after Christchurch's contract ended and organisers canvassed other regions. The event has alternated between Christchurch and Timaru.

Most of the athletes were over 35, and the social aspect of the event was important.

"Going back to Timaru was like a reunion because that's where I came from," Mr Aitken said. "I met people there from further south, out in the country areas, that I hadn't seen for 35 years or more."

He said Saxton Field would play a large role when the games were held in Nelson, and the organising committee would be in contact with other sports about the use of their facilities.

The 2011 event will come at a busy time for Nelson, with the city having just hosted two Rugby World Cup matches, and the Arts Festival which is also on around that time.

Mr Aitken said it was another opportunity to showcase the region.

South Island Masters Games chairman Tony Shaw said moving the games to Nelson provided the chance to offer some new sports and attract athletes from the North Island.

"Nelson was a very natural fit. It has wonderful weather, an extremely supportive community and facilities equal to any other venue in the South Island."

- © Fairfax NZ News

Newest First

Oldest First