OPSA calls for end to Undie 500

OPSA calls for end to Undie 500

The only future for the Undie 500 is if it is run as a properly and effectively organised social event, including measures to lower alcohol consumption, and totally stop fires and bottle throwing.

However, the organisers of the Undie 500, ENSOC, have consistently demonstrated they are totally unable to do this. Thus the Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association (OPSA) is taking the extreme action of calling for an end to the 19 year old Undie 500 event.

“Students need to understand there is a line, and this event consistently crosses the line, burning cars and throwing bottles at fire staff is simply unacceptable” said Ryan Ward, OPSA vice-president.

While the event might be able to be re-done as a properly organised event with effective crowd control, alternative entertainment, a glass ban, less alcohol consumption time, and a substantial attitude modification, OPSA believes the event has built up such a renowned status this is probably no longer possible.; and indeed, outside of the organiser’s ability.

OPSA is calling for ENSOC to be responsible and end the event voluntary. OPSA will send a letter to ENSOC, UCSA and Canterbury University today asking that the event not return to Dunedin if it is to remain in anything remotely like its current form.

OPSA also asks that sponsors, such as this year’s “Lift Plus” and “DB Breweries”, do not sponsor the event unless they want to be openly associated with the carnage it creates.

ENDS