Sport for All Ages – ICSSPE News

With the conclusion of the 1st European Masters Games in September in Malmő, Sweden, approximately 3,500 athletes, who ranged in age from 35 all the way to 90 years old competed in sports such as athletics, beach volleyball, basketball, and karate.

In fact, Masters competitions are becoming increasingly popular, so much that the World Masters Games are considered one of the largest international multi-sports games in terms of participant numbers. Next year, in 2009, Sydney, Australia is expected to host over 25,000 competitors from 100 countries in 28 different sports.

In addition to the regional competitions, individual countries are also hosting their own competitions, such as the 12th Australian Masters Games which will also occur in 2009. Daniel Fingerhut, General Manager of these Games explained, “Often, athletes think they are finished once they past a certain age. Masters Games are popular because it allows people to push their limits, without regard to age. Our population isn’t getting younger, so activities like this will continue to provide an opportunity and motivation for people to stay active.”

With an ageing population predicted by demographic experts in most industrialised countries over the next decade, opportunities for physical activity and sport for the elderly should be a continued topic of discussion for policy makers.

For more information visit www.australianmastersgames.com