Masters games set to roll

l CAIRNS

| Isabella Guzman Gonzalez

TIME is running out for athletes over 30 to register for the Great Barrier Reef Master Games (GBRMG) next month.

Last celebrated in 2021, the GBRMG are returning with a big lineup of athletes and 19 sports, including new addition Rugby 7s, from May 25-28.

The games, which have no qualifying standards, are aimed at athletes over 30 and will take over different sports venues across Cairns.

“The games are in full steam ahead with coordinating the host venues, sports schedules and volunteers,” said Cairns Mayor Bob Manning.

“We’re putting together the final touches for the official opening ceremony and social events.

“Potential GBRMG participants have a month left to register for the 2023 event.”

With over 2500 participants in 2021, Cr Manning expects to reach the same level of attendance.

“To date, around 1500 people have signed up for one of the 19 sports on offer,” he said.

“More than a quarter of the athletes are from the Cairns region, but we have registrations coming from all of Australia, New Zealand, the US, Singa- pore, India, Papua New Guinea and the Pacific Islands.

“There’s a last-minute flurry, especially among local athletes, so we anticipate adding to the total in the coming weeks.”

Cr Manning said the games would have a positive impact on the economy.

“The games have a significant impact. In 2021, the games generated $3.49 million, based on 14,333 visitor nights (Tourism Events Queensland data) for the local economy,” he said.

“The local sports groups also generate revenue for their clubs through registrations and money spent at the venues.” l CAIRNS

With registrations closing by May 24-25, Cr Manning encouraged athletes to enjoy some healthy competition in the tropics.

“There’s still time to sign-up for your sport of choice. We are particularly encouraging locals to dust off their sporting attire and get out and be active,” he said.

Edge Hill Memorial Bowls Club players are taking part in the bowls which are being played at their Jensen St venue.

Sharon Dunkley, Dave Wootton, Jeannie Wild and Mac Smith are four who are taking part in the over 35s and over 55s sections in pairs, triples and fours.

Ms Dunkley said it was a first time at the Masters for all four.

| Nick Dalton

“There are a few more players from Edge Hill too and we are trying to encourage more,” she said.

“We are expecting more than 200 bowlers over the four days. “I think it’s great to see everyone participating.”

Ms Wild said taking part was about meeting new people from different parts of the country and promoting the club and the sport for all ages. For more information and to register, visit www.gbrmg.com.au