The Love Affair That is the Masters Games

The Love Affair That is the Masters Games

The Games mean so much too so many people for a variety of reasons. Many we spoke to, said they couldn’t imagine not being involved. It doesn’t matter if they were a supporter, a participant, a volunteer or part of the event organisation team, everyone who is associated with the Games, knows that they are a part of something special.

One Australian competitor, Sue Dwyer explained how she attended her first Masters Games here in Wanganui seven years ago. Sue had a friend that was involved and she invited her along to check it out. Four Wanganui and three Dunedin Games later and she has gone from refereeing Netball to competing in Swimming, Twilight 400 and helping to organise the open swim. Sue see’s her trips across the ditch as an adventure; she has made herself some lasting friends and can’t see her participation in the New Zealand Masters Games ending anytime soon.

Another competitor passionate about the Games is a member of the Nelson Women’s Hockey team. I was told a story about Tracey who had spent countless hours hand stitching all of the girls costumes. The team of Saloon Girls can be spotted a mile away and so can the blisters, cuts and plasters on Tracey’s hands – a lady so dedicated to her team that she stepped up to take on the role of chief tailor. Also in this team is a bride-to-be due to be married next week. Without concern of injury she is here competing alongside her team hoping to not have to explain any visible bumps and bruises on her wedding day.

These stories and many more like them are an indication of the passion and spirit that make the New Zealand Masters Games the special event that it is and has been for the past 26 years and will be for the future.

Remember for all enquiries concerning registration, results, sports and merchandise, the NZCT Games Village will be open every day from 8am to 6pm. Visit the website nzmg.com or download the phone app for NZMG to stay up to date.

ENDS

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