Tue, Oct 26, 2021 3:12 PM

The Masters Games – 11 days of sporting fun, friendships

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Peter Jones

Organisers of the 2021 Summerset South Island Masters Games, which wrapped up on Monday, have expressed their delight at how well the event has played out in Marlborough.

Event director Simon Carter says, “We are delighted with how these Masters Games have gone, especially given the unique situation of living in a world of COVID and the uncertainty that came with it, pre-event and ultimately during the event as well.

“Certainly, the feedback we have received from participants is how delighted they were to have something to look forward to and how important it has been for their mental health as well, to be able to participate in their sports.

“The main thrust of [the Games] was always around participation, rather than the winning and medals part of it, and the participants came along in a good frame of mind, determined to enjoy themselves while they were here,” he added.

Although the social side of the event, traditionally a highlight, was scaled back, Simon said Games attendees were understanding of that situation.

“Without [the social side] there this time, our participants have still been able to make their own fun … whether it be supporting local retailers and hospitality ventures in town or going out on winery tours or perhaps venturing into the Sounds.”

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Lawn bowlers La Rita Franklin and Lynne Ingram discuss tactics at the Blenheim greens last Monday. Photo Peter Jones

Simon underlined a couple of Games highlights.

“There were two New Zealand records broken at the indoor rowing last Sunday, while a personal highlight has been the opportunity to see our competitors really enjoying themselves and being able to express themselves through what they love doing - playing and competing in sport.”

It has not all been plain sailing. On the second Saturday of the Games, Simon had to deal with the alarming news that a COVID case had been detected in Marlborough, sparking some hurried communication.

“Life throws you a couple of curve balls, but you deal with it,” he said.

“It was not something we foresaw happening, but the local health authorities kept us up to date with the situation and we discussed with them the ability for to us to continue, based on what they knew of the case. We are grateful for their information and the certainty they were able to give us in regard to being able to continue.”

Marlborough are in line to host the Masters Games again in two year’s time and, although a final decision on the 2023 venue has not yet been made, Simon says the organisers’ “intention and hope is that we are back in 2023, that’s for sure”.

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