Expect the Canadians

Dunedin (Friday, 30 November, 2009) – Expect Canadians at future Masters Games in Dunedin, and the Russians, Japanese, Australians . . .

ACC New Zealand Masters Games Manager Aaron Joy is back from the World Masters Games in Sydney where he manned a display promoting the New Zealand event.

“There was huge interest from all over the world, especially when people realised we hold the games every year, in either Dunedin or Wanganui,” Mr Joy said.

“The Canadians were especially keen about Dunedin as we have ice hockey and curling as events.

“Some had thought the New Zealand games were open to only New Zealanders but we accept everyone, wherever they come from.”

With 32,000 people at the Worlds, some 28,000 of those competing, the Dunedin event was truly highlighted to the world’s Masters athletes.

“People want to visit New Zealand, especially Fiordland, and when they realise they can combine it with competing at a Masters Games, then suddenly the trip becomes a must,” Mr Joy said.

It was his first time at a Worlds, which are held every four years. The last one was in Edmonton, Canada.

While there, Mr Joy also participated in the observer programme which gave him a behind-the-scenes look.

“They had an operating budget of $A31 million – the opening ceremony alone cost them $A1 million. And the event was huge. For soccer alone they had 170 teams entered.”

He has come back with valuable lessons for the Dunedin event – both what to do and what not to do.

“Some people were queuing for five hours to register so it shows how important it is to have systems in place that work well.”

ENDS

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