‘Friendly Games’ Come to a Close

‘Friendly Games’ Come to a Close

When the Southern Trust New Zealand Masters Games’ flame was extinguished at the Games Village tonight in Dunedin it brought an end to nine consecutive days of competition at New Zealand’s largest multi-sport event, which Games Manager, Vicki Kestila has dubbed the ‘Friendly Games’.

Vicki Kestila took up the role of Games Manager at the end of the 2012 Games, and says her first experience of managing the Games has been more rewarding than she could ever have expected.

“I’ve been blown away by the overriding spirit of the Games. It’s not just the inspirational performances that are memorable it is also the overwhelming camaraderie that exudes from competitors, sports organisers and volunteers. People are so supportive of each other. If any sporting event deserves to be called the ‘Friendly Games’, it’s the NZ Masters Games.”

The Games once again proved that age is no barrier to participation with the majority of the 5300 competitors aged over 40 years and 415 competitors aged 70 plus. Half of the competitors came from outside of the region and more than 200 were from other parts of the world.

Vicki Kestila says, “The Games are fantastic for Dunedin in so many ways. They showcase the city’s wealth of sporting facilities, provide an opportunity for visitors to explore our beautiful urban and coastal landscapes and experience our legendary southern hospitality.

“The Community Trust Games Village on the University campus has been a huge success, drawing big crowds every night to enjoy a fabulous line-up of live entertainment and to relive their performances at the Games. The Games is as much a social event as it is a sporting event. It’s really all about getting out there, having a go and having fun.”

In 2015 the NZ Masters Games torch will make its way to Wanganui where the flame will once again burn for another ten days of sporting inspiration and friendship.
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