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Sunday 11th October, 2015 The 15th Australian Masters Games bids adieu to Adelaide
Australia’s largest multi-sport festival has drawn to a close in spectacular fashion, farewelling 2015 host city Adelaide in a closing ceremony to remember.
For the past eight days, the 15th Australian Masters Games has been Adelaide’s main event, with more than 10,000 participants in action across 49 sports.
The Games aim to promote the benefits of long-term health and wellbeing and provide a platform through which adult Australians can compete, socialise and enjoy sport.
At a packed Airbnb Games Village on Saturday night, participants said their goodbyes to Adelaide and celebrated the week that was in fine style. Featuring a barnstorming performance from The Australian INXS Show, participants of all ages from all walks of life came together as one to rock the night away, in an openhearted spirit that has defined the Games.
Minister for Tourism, Recreation and Sport, the Hon. Leon Bignell addressed the crowd, thanking them for their participation.
“It is terrific to see the great passion you have for your performances in the sporting arena, but also off the sporting arena,” Mr. Bignell said.
“To see people getting around town and really enjoying themselves, and that camaraderie, has been brilliant.”
The Minister then officially declared the 15th Australian Masters Games closed.
“We are very proud to have held this event here [in Adelaide] in 2011 – to have had it here again in 2015 has been terrific,” Mr. Bignell said.
“To the organisers, thank you so much for putting your faith into Adelaide, and we hope to have the Australian Masters Games back here sometime soon.”
Games Advisory Board chair and Triple M broadcaster Chris Dittmar said the event lived up to expectations and will have a lasting impact on Adelaide.
“It couldn’t have gone any better,” said Dittmar.
“I think people will come back, because it’s been so good. I’ve enjoyed the atmosphere of the sports – I played darts and table tennis myself, albeit very poorly. But the spirit that it was played in was magnificent.”
“This has had a big impact on Adelaide, so it’s ticked boxes from all directions really.”
“The glowing endorsement will be that people will want to come back, and I’m sure they will. I’m very, very confident they will.”
The 15th Australian Masters Games stand to inject in the vicinity of $13 million dollars to the South Australian economy, with more than 250 international participants making their way to Adelaide from 20 countries across the globe – including Canada, India, the United Kingdom and the United States.
Of all Australian participants, 55% came from interstate, with the majority coming from Victoria and New South Wales.
The Australian Masters Games will now shift focus to 2017 and new host North-West Tasmania, for the 16th edition of this fantastic event.
Highlights from the 15th Australian Masters Games
· Marie Ryan, Des Warner, John Beacham – ten pin bowling
The uplifting trio were arguably the story of the Games. All visually impaired due the recklessness of others or plain misfortune, 61-year-old Ryan, 71-year-old Warner and 75-year-old Beacham did not let their disabilities stand in the way of the doing what they love, as they won gold in team ten pin bowling.
“When you’re faced with a tough decision in life, you have two choices, you can sit in the corner and mope about it, or you can stand on the two feet God gave you, move on, and do something extraordinary,” said Marie Ryan.
· Henry Young – 92 years old, tennis
The oldest participant at the 15th Australian Masters Games battled Adelaide’s searing spring heat to claim bronze in the men’s tennis singles 80+ category – proving the South Australian is still young at heart against more youthful opponents.
“It’s such a wonderful sport tennis, you get the exercise, you get the camaraderie, you get everything, and of all the sports I think it’s the most companionable,” said Young.
· Rob Mills – 15th Australian Masters Games ambassador
The star of Australian stage and screen worked the crowd into a frenzy at the 15th Australian Masters Games’ opening ceremony with a string of classics, before downing the microphone and hitting the basketball court the following day.
Just one of more than 10,000 participants, Mills joined the Western Hustle 30+ basketball team for their opening match, and was thrilled to be in the thick of the action.
“It’s a great celebration of people, I think. The Australian Masters Games in general is played with such an amazing spirit and it’s been awesome to be a part of it,” said Mills.
“I will definitely be back one year, but probably not basketball because that was like doing the beep test over and over again. I’m not bad at lawn bowls, so that could be me.”
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia.
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Saturday 10th October, 2015 Mighty Mouse makes his mark on final day of Games
Records were made to be broken on the final day of competition at the 15th Australian Masters Games, with 17 sports in action and the Airbnb Games Village a hive of activity.
The host venue for a number of sports across the eight day event, the Village welcomed powerlifting and judo on Saturday and both brought with them a packed house.
51-year-old Vince Patty was in a dark place some three and a half years ago, before discovering powerlifting. Fast forward to 2015 and the Victorian has broken more than 50 records – including three at this year’s Games.
“I was pretty sick for 10 years and I needed to make a change. I had to have a change of life, so I went to the gym for the first time, and I just started training,” Patty said.
“Before then I couldn’t even lift or squat my own bodyweight. Someone said to me, ‘would you like to do powerlifting’ and it saved my life.”
“I put my hand up and thought I’d have a go, and my first ever competition I broke a world record – though I hadn’t been in the federation long enough to actually make it official.”
The Ravehall local is simply thankful he can take part in an exciting sport within such an encouraging environment.
“I absolutely love the sport. It’s a sport that anyone can do – it’s a grassroots sport.”
“I don’t know any other sport that you get two minutes rest between sets, up to five minutes sometimes, and you can still use social media,” laughed Patty.
“For all the young people out there thinking about sport, not everyone wants to run, not everyone wants to play football, and this is a great way to get yourself strong and fit and be around positive people.”
His time here in Adelaide for the Australian Masters Games has been perfect for Patty to simply enjoy powerlifting without the pressures that come with other competitions.
“I won best bench press and best 74kg lifter. They didn’t have a pound for pound category but I would have won that as well – they call me Mighty Mouse.”
“This has been my first time at the Australian Masters Games, and I’ll be back. I’ve absolutely loved it. Loved the atmosphere and the people, everyone was friendly and it was just a great, well-run place,” he enthused.
“Get yourself fit, get yourself down here and have a go. Find the sport that suits you. This place has every sport under the sun, so have a go,” Patty said.
There’s nothing that would stop 74-year-old Russell Wood from having a go. With a 45 year history in taekwondo, it’s no surprise he took out gold in the 60+ individual world poomsae.
The Roxburgh Park local became an instructor in 1976, and has since progressed to an eighth dan grand master kukkiwon and jidowon instructor. He has won multiple awards and received a sports medal from Queen Elizabeth II, as well as an A-grade gold medal in Korea to be ranked third in the world for his age.
With all this experience under his belt, Wood can still appreciate the 15th Australian Masters Games and participants from all walks of life.
"It's friendly and relaxed, everyone’s happy – a great environment. The other good thing is we have both ITF and WTF working together, so that’s important,” said Wood.
"It just excites you and it keeps me going, I love it to bits. It keeps me young.”
"It also gives you a challenge and a goal in life to stay healthy and fit."
"You see the camaraderie that I have with my students, everyone comes and gives me a cuddle and smiles. That’s what it's all about," said Wood.
At Adelaide City Beach, local club Austral Phoenix Volleyball exceeded expectations with all three teams – 30+ men’s, women’s and mixed – going through undefeated on their way to a gold medal rout in beach volleyball.
Port Noarlunga South’s Mickey Jenkinson has played volleyball for 23 years, and participated in both the women’s and mixed competitions at this year’s tournament. She said the club’s dominance on the court was not the main highlight.
“The best part is the great competition and sportsmanship,” said Jenkinson.
“The reason I participated this year is because it's just an awesome event.”
Jenkinson has previously won gold for South Australia in the Australian Volleyball League, and has had further success in past Australian Masters Games.
“I played in my first Masters Games four years ago and won gold in the women’s and bronze in the mixed.” said Jenkinson.
“The people are great and the atmosphere is even better, everyone has a great time.”
Australia Phoenix president Adam Harris participated in the men’s and mixed competitions, and said the Australian Masters Games provides a platform for past players to rediscover their love for the club and the sport.
“For the club, it was an opportunity to bring together past members and help re-engage them with the club as we try to offer opportunities for participation to people of all ages and abilities to play volleyball”, said Harris.
The 15th Australian Masters Games will officially draw to a close tonight with a spectacular closing ceremony from 7pm. Featuring special guests Minister for Tourism, Recreation and Sport Hon. Leon Bignall MP, Games Advisory Board Chair and Triple M broadcaster Chris Dittmar amongst others, and joined by Devonport City Council Mayor Steven Martin – who will officially receive the Australian Masters Games flag as a host of the 2017 Games.
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia. |
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Friday 9th October, 2015 A miracle on ice for Australian Masters Games’ day seven
She was an Olympic gymnast. He was a karate-practicing, ice-hockey-loving figure skater. How they came to be at the 15th Australian Masters Games in Adelaide is nothing short of a Hollywood screenplay.
Through the 1970’s, Sharon Straub was one of Australia’s best female gymnasts. She represented her nation at the 1976 Montreal Olympic Games, and was a national champion on beam.
Although highly successful in her chosen sport, the now 58-year-old Blue Mountains local and skating partner of New Zealand’s Keith Dickson, had always dreamt of figure skating. But if not for a traumatic car accident, some unconventional medical advice, and the death of her husband, the two may never have come to be.
“I used to love watching skating, but I was always so focused on my gymnastics, and I couldn’t possibly do both,” Straub said.
“I’d often watch skaters and think – I want to do that one day.”
A horrific car accident in 1997 left Straub in a coma. She had broken her foot in three places, and upon waking was told she may never walk again – let alone skate. For the next three years she battled short term memory loss.
“They thought I was going to die because of my head injuries, but I worked so hard to try and get myself back to normal again,” said Straub.
“A specialist eventually said ice skating would be good because it would strengthen my ankles, and so I took it up.”
After she recovered from her accident, Straub began skating as a 40-year-old with her dance partner, whom she married shortly afterwards. The two spent years skating together and competing in adult competitions across the world.
In 2007, Straub and her husband Tibi travelled to Oberstdorf, Germany, for the International Adult Figure Skating Competition – one of the largest annual competitions in the world.
It was there the couple met fellow figure skater Keith Dickson from Dunedin, New Zealand.
“We noticed someone from New Zealand who we’d never met before, and then my husband and Keith started talking to each other; I remember him.”
Unfortunately, her husband died suddenly a few months later and Straub doubted she would ever skate again.
“I was so bewildered and couldn’t cope, and everybody tried to get me back on track,” she said.
“I had so much encouragement, and finally I did go back – that was five years ago now.”
“I started solo free-skating, I’d never done it before, and I realised how much I wanted to skate with somebody again; I really missed it.”
A few years later, 69-year-old Dickson was looking for a new skating partner, and decided to make contact with Straub.
“I contacted her and she said she wanted to come to the New Zealand Masters in Dunedin, and I said she could come stay with me,” Dickson said.
“I really liked her, and I think she really liked me, and a year later she asked me if I’d be her partner.”
“Everyone really encouraged me to ask him,” Straub said.
“I was a bit nervous, but when he came over to Australia to visit I asked him, and he said yes! So that’s how we got started together, and we’ve been together ever since.”
The pair’s first competition was in the 2014 skating competition in Germany, at which there were 528 skaters representing 28 countries.
“We skated to Titanic,” Dickson said.
“I dressed up as Jack and Sharon dressed up as Rose; we danced to ‘My Heart Will Go On’, and at the end I picked her up and she threw her arms out to the side, just like in the movie.”
“We only had six months to put a program together for the competition, and while all the other pairs were married and had skated together for years and years, Sharon and I were going back and forth from Australia to New Zealand, but we did really well.”
Dickson says he and Straub are such a great team because they complement one another and reflect each other’s talents, and their different athletic backgrounds have added to their skills as figure skaters.
“I play ice hockey very seriously, I’m the oldest ice hockey player in New Zealand,” said Dickson, who has participated in the New Zealand Masters Games in hockey since 1992.
“I’ve also got twenty-eight years of karate fighting, but I like figure skating because of the balance – it feels like you’re free.”
“Sharon was on the Olympic team representing Australia, and so we work well together, we’re a good mix.”
The couple are skating together at this year’s Australian Masters Games, with 2015 the first year figure skating has been included as a Games sport.
“We don’t mind if we don’t win, we’re out there to be remembered,” Dickson says.
“We skated once to Aqua’s ‘Barbie Girl’, only I was dressed up as Barbie and Sharon was Ken – she lifted me! I think we came last, but who cares – people are still talking about us!”
The 15th Australian Masters Games figure skating competition continues tomorrow at Ice Arena, 23 James Congdon Drive, Adelaide.
Highlights and points of interest for Saturday 10 October:
· SPECIAL EVENT: Medal presentation with Annabel Digrance MP, State Member for Elder 1:45pm @ Pasadena Sports Centre, Pasadena High School, Corner Daws & Goodwood Roads, Pasadena
The State Member for Elder will present medals of all colour to the many successful basketball teams of the 15th Australian Masters Games.
· SPECIAL EVENT: Medal presentation with Rachel Sanderson MP, State Member for Adelaide Beach volleyball – 4:30-5:15pm @ Adelaide City Beach, 213 Pirie Street, Adelaide Dragon boat – 5:30-6pm @ Torrens River, Pinky Flat, War Memorial Drive, Adelaide
The Shadow Minister for Volunteers will present medals to successful participants in beach volleyball and dragon boating.
· Annette Wilson – 51 years old, powerlifting From 9:30am @ Games Village – Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide
A 51-year-old power-lifter from New South Wales who is coached by her son with Tourette’s Syndrome.
· Closing Ceremony 7pm @ Airbnb Games Village, Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace
Featuring the volunteer appreciation, official close to the 15th Australian Masters Games, flag handover to the 2017 host North-West Tasmania, and the Australian INXS Show to the 15th Australian Masters Games will say goodbye to Adelaide with all the colour and fun from the past eight days.
· FINAL DAY – Athletics, Baseball, Basketball, Dragon Boat, Figure Skating, Football (Soccer), Gymnastics, Hockey, Mountain Bike – Cross Country, Pool Lifesaving, Powerlifting, Rowing, Softball, Table Tennis, Taekwondo, Touch Football, Volleyball - Beach
It’s the final day of competition in seventeen sports, and you don’t want to miss out. Gold medals and bragging rights will be up for grabs, but participants will need to be at their very best to etch their name in Australian Masters Games history.
· FIRST DAY – Gymnastics, Pool Lifesaving, Powerlifting, Taekwondo, Mountain Bike (Cross Country)
The last day of the Games sees five sports kick off competition, with gold medals the just desserts when the final whistle blows.
· OLDEST ENTRANTS IN ACTION –
Rowing – Ted James – 88 years old 9:15am @ Alex Ramsay Regatta Course, Military Road, West Lakes
Table Tennis – Phillip Warwick – 85 years old 9:30am, 10:00am, 3:30pm @ Newton Sports Complex, Corner Strandbroke Road & Whites Lane, Newton
Gymnastics – Alexander Beernink – 71 years old From 1:30pm @ Marion Leisure & Fitness Centre, Oaklands Road, Morphettville
Mountain Bike – Cross Country – Morris Allen – 68 years old 1:00pm, 3:00pm(Presentations) @ Cross Country @ Craigburn Park, MTB Park, Craigburn Road, Craigburn
Pool Lifesaving – Barbara Pearce – 78 years old From 9:00am @ SA Aquatic & Leisure Centre, 443 Morphett Road, Oaklands Park
Powerlifting – John Dellow – 74 years old @ Games Village – Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide
Taekwondo – Russell Wood – 74 years old From 9:30am @ Games Village – Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide
The 15th Australian Masters Games are underway in Adelaide, October 3-10, featuring more than 10,000 participants from across Australia and around the world.
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia.
– ENDS –
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Thursday 8 October, 2015 Former Crow and Triple M jock Nick Gill wins gold for beyondblue
Day six of the 15th Australian Masters Games was a celebration of partnerships and goodwill, as former Adelaide Crows forward Nick Gill and Southern Cross Care CEO Andrew Larpent joined more than 10,000 participants competing in Adelaide.
33-year-old Gill – who played 16 games for the Crows between 2007 and 2009 – competed in today’s 8km cross country competition at Adelaide’s Victoria Park, and took home the gold medal from the 30+ men’s event.
Although needing to tread cautiously due to severe and permanent cartilage damage in his ankle, the now Triple M Adelaide announcer pushed through the pain in the name of charity – entering the Games as abeyondblue ambassador.
“It’s been a fun experience and I’m glad I came out and did it,” said Gill.
“It’s hard to turn it down for such a good cause.”
Beyondblue is a national initiative to raise awareness of anxiety and depression, and provides resources for recovery, management and resilience. As a speaker and ambassador for the organisation, Gill donned his best blue for his event and was more than happy to help out.
“They asked if I could compete, and I ran back in school so I thought I’d try and get over my injuries for a little bit, to help out beyondblue.”
30-year-old former House Rules contestant Ryan Rebbeck is also supporting beyondblue, as he competes in tomorrow’s City Mile run at Torrens West Lake, whilst 69-year-old Sydney cyclist Anne Besser has been raising funds from the moment she registered for the Australian Masters Games, and competed in today’s time trial. She will also ride in tomorrow’s road race.
More than $6,000 has been raised for beyondblue from its partnership with the 15th Australian Masters Games, largely thanks to the generosity of all participants and especially the likes of Gill, Rebbeck and Besser.
Nick Gill will join Ryan Rebbeck and partner Marlee Murphy on Friday night as part of the Games social program, with beyondblue staff and volunteers also on hand for free information and support.
Elsewhere on day six, Southern Cross Care CEO Andrew Larpent made the most of his company’s partnership with the 15th Australian Masters Games, participating in the croquet tournament.
“I’ve become a bit of a croquet fanatic since I came to Australia four years ago,” said Larpent.
“It’s such a wonderful sport – it engages people of all ages, and we have people in their nineties and we have people in their twenties, and younger than that,”
“For us it’s been a wonderful sport to get involved in, a great social life”.
The Englishman is nothing if not honest about his form so far.
“Average,” chuckled Larpent.
“We’re working hard at it – it requires a lot of concentration. There’s a lot of tactics involved, it’s a cunning game, and it also requires a degree of accuracy, and a degree of skill and I’m still learning that.”
A number of Southern Cross Care staff – including Larpent – are either participating or volunteering at this year’s Australian Masters Games, and for the CEO it’s been worthwhile experience.
“The best part is I think just interacting with people who are passionate about their sport, from all over Australia, and meeting new people engaging in the sport, and improving one’s own game as a result, and working with these marvellous volunteers,” said Larpent.
“The volunteers who are supporting the Australian Masters Games have just been amazing.”
“Their commitment to looking after people and supporting people is just what we hoped to see, and I can’t thank them enough for all the hard work they’ve put in”.
In other action from day six, the race walkers moved from the track to the road in for their longest race of 15th Australian Masters Games – with participants 89 years and under competing in the 10km event.
First across the line at Victoria Park was 43-year-old Sunesh Kumar who rounded out a perfect walking week. Malaysia’s only representative at the Games, Kumar added further gold to his 1500m, 3km and 5km walk wins and not only took out his age group, but came first overall in all four races in Adelaide.
Kumar has walked competitively since the age of 13, though took a six year break in his mid-twenties. His fitness has started to decline by the time he was 30, however, and he rediscovered his passion for race walking as a result.
After hearing about the World Masters Games in Sydney in 2009, Kumar set himself the goal of competing at the 2013 World Masters Games in Torino, Italy. He achieved his goal, and placed fourth in the 5km walk and fifth in the 10km walk.
“I have loved my time here,” said Kumar.
“Adelaide is a beautiful city and this has been an amazing experience. I will be back, and I hope when I come back next time I can bring more athletes from Malaysia and surrounding countries.”
“I have loved competing and I have also loved making new friends, I came here all on my own but I will leave with new friends who I hope can keep in touch.”
Highlights and points of interest for Friday 9 October:
· SPECIAL EVENT: Chris Dittmar’s Darts Legends vs. Triple M Listeners 12pm – Airbnb Games Village – Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide
Triple M’s Chris Dittmar has assembled his very own team of darts legends to take on the listeners of Triple M, in a David vs. Goliath battle for the ages. Can the Triple M Listeners upset Ditts’ party? Get down to the Airbnb Games Village and watch darts fly!
· Peter Claridge – 64 years old, shooting-clay target From 9am @ International Clay Target Club, State Shooting Park, 65 Carmelo Road (previously Park Rd), Buckland Park
Struggling with two back operations, the 64-year-old decided to take up clay target shooting and recently won the SA State Single Barrel title with a score of 70/70.
· Maria Szczerba – 50 years old, cycling From 9am @ Road – Talunga Park, Melrose Street, Mount Pleasant
Maria has won 30 medals and competed in cycling, indoor rowing, weights and athletics. This year’s Masters Games will be her fifth.
· Russell Edwards – 62 years old, baseball From 12:00 pm @ Adelaide Shores, Military Road, West Beach
Having participated in all 15 editions of the Australian Masters Games, the 62-year-old returns with his team Gold Diggers for another shot at gold.
· David McLeod – 80 years old, Shooting – Clay Target Shooting Park, 65 Carmelo Road (previously Park Rd), Buckland Park
Having participated in all 15 editions of the Australian Masters Games, the 80-year-old returns to have another shot at gold.
· Jennifer Work – 60 years old, Softball Fast Pitch From TBA @ Barratt Reserve, West Beach Road, West Beach
Having participated in all 15 editions of the Australian Masters Games, the 60-year-old returns with her team WA Legends for another shot at gold.
· FINAL DAY – Archery, Badminton, Croquet, Cue Sports, Darts, Golf, Lawn Bowls, Netball, Shooting – Clay Target, Tenpin Bowling
It’s the final day of competition in 10 sports, and you don’t want to miss out. Gold medals and bragging rights will be up for grabs, but participants will need to be at their very best to etch their name in Australian Masters Games history.
· FIRST DAY – Dragon Boat, Rowing, Table Tennis
It’s the first day of competition in 3 sports. You want to be there from the beginning as Gold medals and bragging rights will be up for grabs, often from the first day of competition.
· OLDEST ENTRANTS IN ACTION –
Dragon Boat – Tubby Ramsay – 81 years old
· Sound Factory 7pm @ Airbnb Games Village, Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace
Sound Factory is without a doubt one of Adelaide’s premier party bands with strong roots in soul, rock, funk, jazz, pop and groove. Covering classic hits from the ‘60s to current tunes, the Airbnb Games Village will be packed to the rafters for a great night guaranteed!
· Charity Sponsor: Beyondblue Beyondblue’s work is aimed at achieving an Australian community that understands depression and anxiety, empowering all Australians, at any life-stage, to seek help. Beyondblue raises awareness, reduces stigma and ensures people have access to the information they need to support recovery, management and resilience.
The 15th Australian Masters Games are underway in Adelaide, October 3-10, featuring more than 10,000 participants from across Australia and around the world.
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia.
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Wednesday 7th October, 2015 Do something extraordinary: gold for South Australia’s blind bowlers
"When you're faced with a tough decision in life, you have two choices, you can sit in the corner and mope about it, or you can stand on the two feet God gave you, move on, and do something extraordinary."
After being hit by a drunk driver 21 years ago, the 61-year-old from Woodcroft, South Australia, was left blind from severe damage to the brain.
Beacham is, unfortunately, another victim to reckless driving. In 1969, the now Parkholme resident was hit by a car and has been blind ever since. He was also left without the use of one leg for more than a year.
As for Ferryden Park’s Warner, he believes he was simply drawn a harsh deck of cards by the universe, as one morning in 1996 he awoke blind after blood vessels in his eyes burst whilst he was sleeping.
Whilst they don’t bowl, there are two other highly valuable team members that make the machine click; Ryan’s husband David – who is the team’s driver and number one fan – and Ryan’s three year old guide dog Ebony, from Guide Dogs SA/NT.
The trio came together seven years ago when bowling recreationally at Noarlunga with the Royal Society for the Blind Bowling Club. They later moved to Marion where the three started competing as a team.
2015 will be the team’s first Australian Masters Games together, but when Ryan and Ebony were attacked by a German Shepherd in April, their hopes of competing looked likely to grind to a halt. Yet with so many challenges already overcome, it is no surprise that some months later, both Ryan, Ebony are here in Adelaide with their team.
All three team members originally had a B3 eye classification, which is described as having tunnel vision. Recently they have all dropped to a B2 classification, meaning they can only see shadows and have large areas of their vision totally blocked out. For some in this classification it means they have no peripheral vision, whilst for others it means they only have peripherals.
“It’s like holding a piece of paper against your face with two pinholes for eyes,” described Ryan.
She can where she is bowling from, but cannot see this pins, meaning she needs to bowl with a spotter. Her spotted can tell her what pins are remaining so she knows where to position herself.
Warner and Beacham, however, use a device called a vinocular – which they hold to one eye. It is similar to a pair of binoculars, and helps the pair see the scores and what pins they have left to knock over.
Whilst enjoying life as a team, the three bowlers also compete in singles and doubles. As the only visually impaired bowlers in this year’s Games, the trio are competing against themselves but hope to have a team travel from Victoria at the next edition in two years’ time.
“There is no such thing as can’t,” agreed Warner and Beacham.
The highest achievable score in a ten pin bowling is 300, and despite their impaired vision and Ryan’s broken hand, the inspirational trio were able to register scores of 110, 159 and 179 respectively.
Marie Ryan, Des Warner and John Beacham will be award their gold medals on Friday 9th October at AMF Bowling Woodville, 819 Port Road, Woodville.
Highlights and points of interest for Thursday 8 October: • Tory Toogood – 41 years old, cycling 9am – Time Trial @ Talunga Park, Melrose Street, Mount Pleasant
Tory Toogood was a member of the Australian rowing team from 1991-96, won a silver medal for women’s pair at the 1993 world championships and a bronze medal for women’s four at the 1994 world championships.
· Nick Gill – 33 years old, athletics (cross country) From 8am @ Victoria Park, Fullarton Road, Adelaide
Former Adelaide Crows star, Triple M broadcaster and beyondblue ambassador Nick Gill will be ready to go all terrain for the Australian Masters Games cross country, fresh off his recent performance at Adelaide Oval in the Slowdown.
· Margaret Boylan – 57 years old, cycling 9am @ Adelaide Super-Drome, Main North Road, Gepps Cross
After suffering a serious traumatic brain injury from a cycling accident, Margaret returned to riding in 2012 and has slowly built up her skill and confidence again.
· Nancy Caple – 61 years old, netball 12pm @ Netball SA Stadium, 155 Railway Terrace, Mile End South
Nancy has played netball for 32 years with her team competing in six Australian Master Game. They won bronze in the World Master Games in Melbourne.
· FINAL DAY – cricket, indoor netball, petanque
Cricket @ Para Hills Cricket Club, Corner Nelson and Murrell Roads, Para Hills Indoor Netball @ Action Indoor Sports Centre, 10 Clayson Rd, Salisbury East Petanque @ Prospect Petanque Club, 14-32 Buchanan Street, Nailsworth
It’s the final day of competition in three sports, and you don’t want to miss out. Gold medals and bragging rights will be up for grabs, but participants will need to be at their very best to etch their name in Australian Masters Games history.
· FIRST DAY – figure skating
Figure Skating @ Ice Arena, 23 James Congdon Drive, Thebarton
It’s the first day of competition in one sports. You want to be there from the beginning as Gold medals and bragging rights will be up for grabs, often from the first day of competition.
· Australian Masters Games Karaoke Competition 7pm @ Airbnb Games Village, Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace
Having proven themselves out there across 49 sports, our Games participants will hit the stage for the most respected form of competition of all – karaoke. Live from 7pm at the Airbnb Games Village.
OLDEST ENTRANTS IN ACTION:
· Figure Skating – Richard Lynch – 73 years old
· Golf – Peter Cox – 92 years old From 9:00 am @ Flagstaff Hill Golf Club, Memford Way, Flagstaff Hill
The 15th Australian Masters Games are being held in Adelaide, October 3-10, featuring more than 10,000 participants from across Australia and around the world.
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia.
– ENDS –
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Tuesday 6th October, 2015 South Australia’s royal Richie Alagich shifts states on day four
Some cross-border football rivalry, a few nostalgic basketball names and Canberra’s oldest yet finest netballers headlined day four of the 15th Australian Masters Games.
A South Australian by birth, former Adelaide United star Richie Alagich did away with state ties to don the big V as a member of Victorian over 35 team – the Melbourne Buffer.
Australian Masters Games ambassador for football here in Adelaide, Alagich is full of admiration for the players around him.
"They are all here to have fun, enjoy the game and meet new people," he said.
Alagich made a number of attendances for the under 20 and under 23 Australian squads and played for the Reds at home in South Australia from the club’s inception until his retirement from professional football in 2008. The competitive drive was still there though, however, and Alagich joined local team the Adelaide Raiders for another two season before retiring from football in 2010.
The 41-year-old admits the game can start to pass you by as the years roll on, but that’s no excuse for not getting out there and doing what you love.
“You lose momentum and you have an inability to change direction quickly," laughed Alagich.
“But we’re all just enjoying football enjoying each other’s company, and trying not to take it all too seriously.”
His team the Melbourne Buffer are a group of expatriate South Africans from Melbourne and Sydney, and are enjoying the spoils of their star recruit.
"We never thought we would play with someone from such a high level. He’s slotted in well and really is a part of our team," said 50-year-old Buffer player Adrian Lewis.
The Buffer had a 6-0 win in today’s match, and said their first experience at the Masters has been first class.
From elsewhere around the grounds, the Wayville Sports Centre was graced with greatness of its own as former Boomer Mike McKay and his merry band of Australian all-stars hit the court.
Even their opposition were dishing out high fives following some outstanding plays from the Steelers in the men’s 50+ basketball competition.
The former NBL star and Olympic representative led his team in scoring as they defeated the Myths and Legends 43-35.
Starring alongside McKay in the win was Peter Dawe, who has formerly played alongside McKay in the NBL with the West Adelaide Bearcats. Other former NBL players among the Steelers’ three teams include Graham Kubank, Darren Breeding and Matthew Buck.
The Steelers have entered teams in the 45+, 50+ and 55+ age groups, all of which are undefeated so far through three days of play.
The three teams are comprised of friends who have met and played together since their junior district basketball careers at various clubs, such as Sturt Sabres, North Adelaide Rockets and West Adelaide Bearcats. As their junior and senior careers wound down, the men have kept playing together regularly in Masters competitions both locally, interstate and internationally.
As proven time and time again at the Australian Masters Games, age is nothing more than a number. For 76-year-old netballer Theresa van Heuzen, truer words have not been spoken.
Goal shooter for the Canberra Classics and the Games’ oldest netballer, her focus is to live a life worth living.
In 1953, van Heuzen migrated from Holland to Australia as a 15-year-old, and promptly signed up for the school basketball team. But it wasn’t for some twenty-six years that she would discover a passion for netball.
From playing on a team with her four daughters whilst they themselves were at school, van Heuzen and some team mates formed the Canberra Classics in 2001, and have never looked back.
“It’s something exciting to do every year, a chance to all get together,” van Heuzen said.
“We heard about the Masters Games and thought, well let’s go and give it a try.”
The Games provide a platform through which adult Australians can compete, socialise and enjoy sport, and with her team mates stemming from all walks of life, van Heuzen believes it’s that sense of companionship which brings the Classics back time and time again.
“We have been together for a long time. We play together every week at home, and we’ll usually go out for coffee afterwards too.”
It’s been a successful Australian Masters Games journey for the van Heuzen and her Canberra classics, having won six gold medals, five silver and six bronze across eight Games.
Highlights and points of interest for Wednesday 7 October:
· SPECIAL EVENT: Australian Masters Games all-star curtain for the Adelaide 36ers 5pm @ Titanium Arena – 44a Crittenden Road, Findon
In a special, one-off event for the 15th Australian Masters Games, a host of Olympians and former NBL-stars will blow out the cobwebs at Titanium Arena, for the Adelaide 36ers’ season opener against the New Zealand Breakers. It’s the Chris Anstey-led HasBeens and Jason Dix’s WTBC, and will be sure to surprise.
Contact Mitch Broughton (0419 547 974) for further details.
· Kris Apps – 69 years old, indoor rowing 10:30am @ Games Village - Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide
After an accident in 1987 which left her in a wheelchair, Kris Apps refuses to let anything stop her. She’s swam in five Australian Masters Games and two World Masters Games, as well as holding several state records, and will go for gold yet again.
· Brad Jackson – 54 years old, rowing 10:50am @ Games Village - Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide
The 54-year-old from South Australia has been playing gridiron for 25 years and has taken part in numerous international games. He has competed in the Australian Masters Games since 2007 but has taken up rowing as it’s gentler on the knees.
· Craig Trewartha – 65-years-old, basketball
Having participated in all 15 editions of the Australian Masters Games, the 65-year-old returns with his team the Bankstown Bruins for another shot at gold.
· Chris Sargent – 67 years old, basketball 11am @ Pasadena School, Corner of Daws and Goodwood Roads, Pasadena 5pm @ Wayville Sports Centre, 142 Rose Terrace, Wayville
Another to have participated in all 15 editions of the Australian Masters Games, the 67-year-old returns with team Territory in toe, hoping for a win.
· Ev Ottley – 69 years old, basketball 11am @ Pasadena School, Corner of Daws and Goodwood Roads, Pasadena 5pm @ Wayville Sports Centre, 142 Rose Terrace, Wayville
69-year-old Ev Ottley has enjoyed every Australian Masters Games to date, and is back once again for another game of hoops.
· Russell Edwards – 62 years old, baseball 2:30pm @ Adelaide Shores, Military Road, West Beach
He’s brought his catching mitt and bat to all 15 Australian Masters Games, and will be hoping for a home run here in Adelaide.
· David McLeod – 80 years old, Shooting – Clay Target Time TBA @ Shooting Park, 65 Carmelo Road (previously Park Rd), Buckland Park
80-year-old David McLeod is a sharp shooter from New South Wales, and will have gold in his sights at his 15th Australian Masters Games.
· Jennifer Work – 60 years old, Softball Fast Pitch 11am @ Barratt Reserve, West Beach Road, West Beach
60-year-old Jennifer Work knows how to get the job done, and is back for 15th Australian Masters Games in softball.
· FINAL DAY – futsal, rowing indoor, tennis Futsal @ Parks Recreation and Sports Centre, 46 Cowan Street, Angle Park Rowing Indoor @ Games Village, Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide Tennis @ Tennis Seniors South Park Complex, Greenhill Road, Adelaide
It’s the final day of competition in three sports, and you don’t want to miss out. Gold medals and bragging rights will be up for grabs, but participants will need to be at their very best to etch their name in Australian Masters Games history.
· FIRST DAY – shooting – clay target, touch football, volley ball - beach Shooting – Clay Target @ Shooting Park, 65 Carmelo Road, Buckland Park Touch Football @ City Touch Club, corner Greenhill and Beaumont Roads, Eastwood Volley Ball - Beach @ Adelaide City Beach, 213 Pirie Street, Adelaide
It’s the first day of competition in three sports. You’ll want to be there right from the word go as participants and their teams start their journey to gold medal glory.
· Mid-week Party – feat. Mix 102.3’s Jodie Oddy for the McGrath Foundation & 100% Kylie 7pm @ Airbnb Games Village, Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace
Featuring the ‘100% Kylie Stage Show Spectacular’ – it’s a tribute to the princess of pop with full scale production. Participants will be decked out head to toe in pink and spinnin’ around. Mix 102.3’s Jodie Oddy will be our Games special guest.
· Charity Sponsor: McGrath Foundation
The McGrath Foundation’s vision is to ensure every Australian family experiencing breast cancer has access to a breast cancer nurse regardless of where they live, or their financial situation.
Oldest participants in action on day five:
· Futsal – Headley Bennett – 65 years old – Team: Beechworth EST From 7:40 pm @ Parks Recreation and Sports Centre, 46 Cowan Street, Angle Park
· Tenpin Bowling – Sally Hopton – 80 years old (Mixed Doubles)
· Softball Fast Pitch – Lorraine Page – 77 years old – Team: WA Legends From 11:00 am @ Barratt Reserve, West Beach Road, West Beach
The 15th Australian Masters Games are underway in Adelaide, October 3-10, featuring more than 10,000 participants from across Australia and around the world.
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia.
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Monday 5th October, 2015 From far and wide on day three of the Australian Masters Games
Adelaide’s sweltering temperatures and strong winds bought some challenges on day three of the 15thAustralian Masters Games in Adelaide, and despite its location amidst the air conditioned climate of the Airbnb Games Village, it was boxing which brought the heat.
48-year-old American Chet Pickens is just one of nearly 200 boxers who aren’t pulling any punches in Adelaide, and it’s been 16,000km well-travelled for the Chicago native – who picked up his first boxing gold medal in the 69-75kg middleweight category.
The artist and bus driver from Illinois had only heard good things about Australia, and it prompted him to board a plane to come fight downunder on a whim.
“I heard the Aussies were good people and I thought this was a good opportunity to go to an event and do something different,” Pickens said.
Albeit elated to have claimed Australian Masters Games gold, the American is on a greater mission than merely sporting endeavours.
“I want to take a message back to my country to say stop the violence,” said Pickens.
“I have come to Australia to fight, but it is done without guns. I go in the ring and we have fisticuffs, we win or lose and then we go out and have fun.”
The boxer plans to talk to schools, the children on his bus, and sporting clubs back home about the need to stop the violence on the street, and to show they too can travel the world and meet new people through boxing.
“We can fight all we like in the ring, but once we are out of it, then we should be able to shake hands,” said Pickens.
Archer Sylvana Plazanet is another member of the Games family to add an international flavour.
Hailing from Kone, New Caledonia, Plazanet has travelled almost 3,000 kilometres – with family and bow in tow – to be part of the 15th Australian Masters Games.
Having won a number of medals in her sporting career, including gold at the 2013 World Masters Games in Turin, the 64-year-old hopes Adelaide will be yet another winning experience.
Whilst not fluent in English, Plazanet’s daughter Wallis has joined her at the Games – along with husband and fellow archery participant Guy – and says her mother is here to win, but appreciates more than just the end result.
“She loves the sport because it’s really nice to meet new people,” said Wallis.
“Even though she can’t speak English, she’s always well-received and people try to help her all the time. It’s not the same mentality in our country, so she loves to experience new things.”
Although the distance pales in comparison, Adelaide is still a far cry from the small town of Bomaderry, New South Wales – some two hours south of Sydney.
It’s from here the tight knit and travel-hardened Bomaderry FC hone their football skills before pitting them against the best Masters around the world and Australia.
The men in yellow and black are no strangers to racking up the kilometres for the love of football. They have travelled as far as Turin, Italy to participate in the 2013 World Masters Games, and are here for their first Australian Masters Games – ready to take the Men’s 50+/55+ football competition by storm.
Team Manager and player, Alan Barnes believes travel is actually an integral part of what makes participating in different Games such a drawcard for his side.
“We decided at the end of our careers we would try and do as many Masters Games as we can,” the 55-year-old said.
“It’s just a way of all the guys being brought together and travelling to see the country and the world.”
As for their work on the pitch, Bomaderry FC started the competition well, defeating Adelaide Juventus in a tough contest 1-0 in the opening match of Group 1.
Highlights and points of interest for Tuesday 6 October:
· Christopher Spence – 57 years old, cycling From 10am @ Adelaide Super-Drome, Main North Road, Gepps Cross
Suffering spinal injuries and ending up bedridden for 6 months after a bush track cycling accident was not enough to stop the 57-year-old. Riding is still painful for Spence but the Australian Masters Games are a step on the road to recovery.
· Loraine Baron – 66 years old, athletics 9:40am @ SA Athletics Stadium, 145 Railway Terrace, Mile End
Having not been involved in athletics since her school days, the 66-year-old fell back in love with the sport and will now compete in her 7th Australian Masters Games.
· FINAL DAY – archery, athletics (track & field), boxing, cycling (track), racquetball, volleyball Archery @ Saint Ignatius’ College, Manressa Court, Athelstone Athletics (track & field) @ SA Athletics Stadium, 145 Railway Terrace, Mile End Boxing @ Airbnb Games Village – Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace, Adelaide Cycling (track) – SuperDome, Main North Road, Gepps Cross Racquetball @ South Adelaide Squash Centre, 2A Midera Avenue, Edwardstown Volleyball – Brighton High School, 305 Brighton Road, North Brighton
It’s the final day of competition in six sports, and you don’t want to miss out. Gold medals and bragging rights will be up for grabs, but participants will need to be at their very best to etch their name in Australian Masters Games history.
· Coopers Beer Appreciation followed by Abba-solutely brought to you by the Flaming Sambucas 7pm @ Airbnb Games Village, Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace
Coopers is a brand synonymous with South Australia, and has been a part of the state’s fabric for more than 150 years. The team from Coopers will provide tastings and an insight into the nuts and bolts of what makes their beers truly special.
Then, Games participants will get their jumpsuits on and Fernando pumping as they let their inner Dancing Queen loose with this brilliant tribute to the other fab four.
The 15th Australian Masters Games are underway in Adelaide, October 3-10, featuring more than 10,000 participants from across Australia and around the world.
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia.
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Sunday 4th October, 2015 A slam dunk performance from Rob Mills on Games day two
After working the crowd into a frenzy at last night’s opening ceremony, 15th Australian Masters Gamesambassador Rob Mills downed the microphone and went with the basketball as his weapon of choice for day two of Australia’s largest multi-sport festival.
Just one of more than 10,000 participants, Mills joined the Western Hustle 30+ basketball team for their opening match in Adelaide, and after blowing the cobwebs out in the warm up, the 33-year-old star was ready to go.
There were clear nerves before tip-off – both from the Hustle and their opponents, the Longnecks, and questions loomed as to just what Mills would bring. None were answered immediately though, as the stage performer started the game on the bench.
It was an obvious tactical ploy from the Western Hustle, keeping their star recruit away from the fray until the pace settled, and it was an inspired one at that as Mills hit the court with immediate impact.
He was frenetic on offence and defence, and no sooner had he stepped into the game was he awarded a pair of free-throws after drawing a foul. Mills went one from two and the Western Hustle headed into half-time up by that solitary point.
Having proved his worth, Mills was rewarded with a spot in the starting five for the second half and again showed he was more than capable, going aerial to pull down a number of rebounds with little concern for his own welfare.
Successfully dodging the many stray limbs underneath the basket, the Hustle coaching staff gave their number one man a breather knowing full well he would be pivotal in the dying minutes. The men from Western Australia went blow for blow with the Longnecks from this point on, but answered every challenge.
With a margin of just two points and only a matter of minutes remaining, it was time for the Hail Mary play. Mills leapt from the bench when called upon and glided up and down the court with the benefit of his rest. Demonstrating vision that could only come from a career weaving around microphone leads and expensive musical equipment, Mills wooed the crowd with his passing prowess as the Western Hustle skipped away.
The game clock counted down, and a turnover led to a fast breakaway. His team willed the ball into his hands and Mills hit the basket like poetry in motion for a highlight reel layup that iced the game – although it was all a blur for the man of the moment.
“All I know is that the game was in the balance at one stage, and then Mills got a fast break, and Mills nailed an epic lay-up which really turned the game,” the Victorian laughed
“They’re calling me the game changer. They carried me off the court.”
36-year-old Western Hustle captain Ray D’Costa said he and his team were thrilled to have Mills on board.
“I tell you what, we have the name Hustle in this team, and it wasn’t until Millsy came on that we really got the hustle going,” said D’Costa.
“I really think injecting him at the time we did was absolutely crucial to our victory today.”
“I’d love to have Millsy back any time at all, especially if he’s happy to have me up on stage,” announced D’Costa.
Whilst we may not see the Mills and D’Costa duo touring nationally any time soon, chances are high Rob Mills will be back in action at the Australian Masters Games in the future.
“It’s a great celebration of people, I think. The Australian Masters Games in general is played with such an amazing spirit and it’s been awesome to be a part of it,” Mills said.
“I will definitely be back one year, but probably not basketball because that was like doing the beep test over and over again. But I’m not bad at lawn bowls, so that could be me.”
Highlights and points of interest for Monday 5 October:
· Lyn Peake – 65 years old, athletics 1:40pm @ SA Athletics Stadium, 145 Railway Terrace, Mile End
Since fracturing her shoulder three years ago in three places, this 10-time Australian record breaking athlete is now number one in the world for sprint races in her age group.
· Brett Rankine – 41 years old, hockey 9:45am @ State Hockey Centre, Main North Road, Gepps Cross
After his team won gold at the 2013 Australian Masters Games and another at the Pan Pacific Masters Games, the Magpies are back to defend their title competing against the Young Warriors.
· The Kool Kat Club 7pm @ Airbnb Games Village, Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace
The kings of Australian Swing encourage you to come and jump, jive and wail the night away.
· Wolf Blass Master Class 7pm @ Airbnb Games Village, Adelaide Convention Centre, North Terrace
The 15th Australian Masters Games are underway in Adelaide, October 3-10, featuring more than 10,000 participants from across Australia and around the world.
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia.
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Thursday 1 October, 2015 The 15th Australian Masters Games: by the numbers
With just two days to go, the city of Adelaide is bursting at the seams with approximately 10,000 people ready and able for the 15th Australian Masters Games.
Regarded as one of the premier and largest mass-participation events on the Australian sporting landscape, the Games aim to promote the benefits of long-term health and wellbeing by providing a platform through which adult Australians can compete, socialise and enjoy sport.
The focus is on participation and enjoyment, with a friendly atmosphere following the Games wherever they go. But with almost 20,000 medals up for grabs across 49 sports, it’s sure to be on for young and old once participants cross the white line in competition.
The oldest competitor at this year’s Australian Masters Games is avid tennis player Henry Young. The 92-year-old South Australian competed previously in 2009 and is back again with a few more years’ worth of experience under his belt.
In most sports, the minimum age for participation is 30 years. However the Games adopt the rules of each individual sport, and by the letter of the law, those 18 years and older can compete in masters swimming. It means Adelaide can welcome 19-year-old swimmer Elizabeth Canning of New South Wales, who not only gets the chance to go for gold, but also holds the illustrious title of youngest participant at the 15thAustralian Masters Games.
The Games will have a certain international flavour in 2015, with more than 250 participants making their way to Adelaide from 20 countries across the globe. Whether it’s Canada, Sri Lanka, the United Kingdom or the United States to name a few, all will be welcomed with open arms.
Of Australian participants, 55% come from outside South Australia. Victoria contributes the second largest overall number of entrants, followed by New South Wales.
If you’re looking for wealth of numbers though, then go no further than softball; the Games’ single biggest sport for participation has pulled in more than 850 participants. Dragon boat is next up with over 650, and netball close behind with approximately 620.
Basketball lays claim to the three oldest teams at the Games. The Myths and Legends 75+ average age rounds out to a spritely 80 years old, and a combined total age of 800.49 years. Their younger brigade, the Myths and Legends 70+, are next in line at an average age of 75, whilst women’s team TERRITORY combine for an average age of 67.
Overall, the men will only slightly outnumber the women at this year’s Australian Masters Games, with participation numbers seeing a 54% male and 46% female split.
In a testament to the Australian Masters Games and every host city past and present, Adelaide will also welcome back seven participants who have attended every event since the first edition in Hobart in 1987.
Of this sensational seven, five keep coming back year in year out for basketball, with 65-year-old Craig Trewartha (SA), 67-year-old Chris Sargent (NT), 69-year-old Ev Ottley (NT) and 75 year old Frank Jones(Vic) all returning to sink some hoops.
These are just a few of the many facts and figures from the 15th Australian Masters Games.
The 15th Australian Masters Games will be held in Adelaide, October 3-10, featuring more than 10,000 participants from across Australia and around the world.
For further information regarding the Australian Masters Games, please visitwww.australianmastersgames.com.
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Wednesday 30 September 2015
Game on in Adelaide for the Australian Masters Games
It’s all eyes on Adelaide from this Saturday 3 October as the 15th Australian Masters Games roll into town for eight days of fierce and friendly competition.
Regarded as one of the premier and largest mass-participation events on the Australian sporting landscape, the 15th edition of the Games will attract an expected 10,000 participants, volunteers and staff across 49 sports.
The Australian Masters Games aims to promote the benefits of long-term health and wellbeing by providing a platform through which adult Australians can compete, socialise and enjoy sport.
From archery to volleyball and everything in between, the Australian Masters Games offers something for everyone – no matter their ability or experience.
South Australian sporting legend and radio presenter Chris Dittmar is the chairman of the 15th Australian Masters Games advisory board, and believes it is the social and inclusive nature of the Games that truly set them apart from other events.
“Some participants will be targeting fast times and medals, but for the vast majority, it’s all about keeping fit and active, while enjoying a sport they love amongst friends old and new,” said the former squash world no.1 and now Triple M Adelaide announcer.
“I’ll be one of those – the older we get, the better we get.”
The eight day event will inject millions of dollars into the local South Australian economy, attracting participants from all states and territories of Australia – with the previous edition in Geelong, Victoria also welcoming a number of international entrants from approximately 14 countries across the globe.
Multi-talented entertainer Rob Mills will be enjoying everything Adelaide and the Games have to offer in October, as the official 15th Australian Masters Games ambassador.
The 33-year-old has enjoyed great success in the realms of musical theatre in recent years, playing Danny in the blockbuster national tour of Grease, and playing the role of Fiyero for more than 500 shows in the critically acclaimed Wicked.
It will all amount to a warm up come October however, as ‘Millsy’ takes to the court in mixed basketball against what will undoubtedly be some tough competition.
“I’ve had some tough auditions in my time, but from what I’ve heard about basketball at the Australian Masters Games, I’m really going to be up against it!” laughed Mills.
“Regardless of my own performance out there, I’m just thrilled to be a part of the Games and can’t wait to get to Adelaide and enjoy a pretty unique event.”
The undeniable stars of the show, however, are the participants themselves – all 10,000 of them.
81-year-old Dennis Peck of Tumby Bay will compete in his ninth Australian Masters Games come October and is certain it won’t be his last.
“Age is no barrier,” said Peck who will participate in athletics and canoe/kayak.
“There are people younger than me who say “I’d like to do it but …” and they never do.”
“I intend to keep going, at least until my knees give way. And even then, I’ll just kayak.”
But it’s not just sporting endeavours that will bring thousands of competitors and volunteers to Adelaide for the 15th Australian Masters Games. An important and exciting aspect of the eight day event is a jam-packed social program – one that is full of action away from the field of play.
The Airbnb Games Village will play host to the very best music, food and drink South Australia has to offer every night, ensuring the 15th Australian Masters Games will be the time of your life.
Late entries for the Games are still available, so enter now at www.AustralianMastersGames.com.
The Australian Masters Games is proudly sponsored by the South Australian Tourism Commission through Events South Australia.
Australian Masters Games Snapshot
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