The World Masters Games is an international multi sport event held every four years which, in terms of competitor numbers, has developed into the largest of its kind.
Governed by the International Masters Games Association, the World Masters Games is open to sports people of all abilities and most ages – the minimum age criterion ranges between 25 and 35 years depending on the sport – with Turin, Italy scheduled to host the major event’s eighth edition from 2 August to 11 August 2013.
The 1998 Nike World Masters Games will be held in Portland, Oregon, August 9-22. The World Masters Games, a quadrennial event, will bring 25,000 “masters” athletes from 100 countries together for the world’s largest participatory multi-sport competition.
The Games are open to anyone who meets the minimum age requirements (30 years in most sports). “Masters” is simply an age destination and does not denote a level of proficiency or a particular achievement; there are no qualifying marks or times. “The competition is open to everyone,” said David Fee, executive manager of the Games. “We want to appeal to the average competitor.” Athletes will participate as individuals or teams, and do not represent their country.
Portland and the surrounding area will provide the perfect backdrop for the Games. Several public parks and recreational facilities throughout Oregon and southwest Washington will be used as competition venues, including Tualatin Hills Athletic Center, Vancouver Lake Park, and Delta Park. Charles Jordan, director of Portland Parks and Recreation, is extremely enthusiastic about his city playing a part in the Games. “I think it’s beneficial for any urban park and recreation department when their facilities can be highlighted,” said Jordan. “I don’t see any negatives at all, only positives.”
Twenty-five sports will be featured, including athletics (track and field), badminton, basketball, baseball, bowling, canoe/kayak, cycling, diving, fencing, football (soccer), golf, orienteering, rowing, rugby, sailing, softball, squash, swimming, table tennis, triathlon, volleyball, water polo, weightlifting, and windsurfing. …
