The Australian Masters Games is a wonderful reminder of sportsmanship, which can often be lost in national and international competitions.
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Images of tearful or angry Australian athletes often catch our attention at the Olympics or world title events. That’s understandable – the amount of work that goes into elite sports is incredible. Their passion and determination is admirable, and people should be able to freely express their emotions.
However, it is also extremely important for the community to realise that there is more to sport than a gold medal.
It can be just as much about having fun, staying active and challenging yourself, and the Masters Games competitors should be admired for displaying that.
Westbury showjumper Caro Verbraeken put it perfectly when she said it was the social side of the games that she and her peers were really looking forward to.
“There are more people around my age - some a bit older, some a bit younger, and we’re all going to stay the night and there’s a dinner on that Friday night, so it will be more social and catching up,” she explained.
But, even better, the fun side of the games doesn’t mean it’s not a respected event, and within the Tasmanian contingent, there are some familiar sporting names.
Among them are National Basketball League veteran Anthony Stewart, Olympic track cyclist Tim O’Shannessey, English Channel swimmer Anne Steele, marathon champion Jenny Gillard, and Northern soccer institutions John “Snowy” Compagne and Lynden “Big L” Prince.
What better role models could we ask for when talking about good sportsmanship?
The state’s North-West has risen to the challenge in an impressive way with more than 70 venues playing host to nearly 5000 competitors. The opening ceremony including a showcase of the quality food and wine the region has to offer. It ties in perfectly with the Devonport Food and Wine Festival.
And even Launceston will make a splash during the games, hosting the swimming and pool lifesaving events at the aquatic centre.
Thousands of hours of work went into securing, organising and promoting the Australian Masters Games, and it was off to a great start on Saturday.
We’re looking forward to following the events and competitions throughout the week, and the inspiring sporting masters.