SUPPORTING THE 2011 NZ MASTERS GAMES
A fantastic sporting event enjoyed by thousands
NZCT is a proud supporter of the 2011 New Zealand Masters Games, which take place in Wanganui between 4 – 13 February. During these 10 days around 6,000 athletes, representing 14 different countries will compete in 64 sports ranging from tennis and darts, to waka ama and yachting.
To qualify as a ‘master’ participants must generally be over 35 years of age (although some sports accept competitors as young as 20 years). Event organiser Mike Cronin explains how the games have grown in popularity since they were first introduced in 1989.
“The first NZ Masters Games were held in Wanganui and involved 30 sports and 1650 competitors,” says Mike. “Since then, the event has blossomed and the games are now a highly regarded, well recognised international event.
“And it’s not just about the sports – although obviously that plays a huge part – the social connections and activities that go along side the event are also a huge draw card. The NZCT Village is the games’ social hub,” he says. “We have people who come back year after year, to compete and have fun. It’s just fantastic.
“Of course the organisation that goes into an event like this is huge. The games are held annually, alternating each year between Wanganui and Dunedin. As soon as one event is over, we start planning the next one.
“We couldn’t put on the games without the generous support of NZCT and we really appreciate their on-going support.”
Tony Gill, NZCT National Grants Manager, says NZCT recognises and admires the significance of the NZ Masters Games and is pleased to be able to help them come to life.
“NZCT is the biggest funder of amateur sport in New Zealand,” says Tony. “Every year we receive thousands of grant applications, and when we consider them we look at how many people will benefit from the grant and whether we are getting maximum return for the money invested. I’m pleased to say that the NZ Masters Games are superbly organised and have a huge following. They certainly meet our criteria and, as a result, we have been a proud supporter for several years.
“We wish all the competitors, supporters and organisers of the 2011 NZ Masters Games all the very best and hope everyone has a successful, enjoyable time at this wonderful event,” he says.
“I would also like to thank our loyal publicans for the work they do raising funds for us to distribute to worthwhile sporting and community causes. Without them, many events like this simply couldn’t happen. So thank you NZCT publicans – we appreciate our efforts.”
