Masters Comeback

Territorians love their sport, and the biennial Masters Games in Mparntwe/Alice Springs makes a welcome return, providing an opportunity for athletes to flex their abilities as they take on interstate competitors.

^{By Jenna Hoare}

WHETHER ITS ON the court, track, or field, the comeback of the Games promises to be memorable with more than 600 participants and 26 sports, open to athletes of all levels aged 30 years and over.

Swimmer and athletics competitor Maggie Roberts says she’s looking forward to the road trip from Darwin to be there.

“It was the only Masters Games in Australia when I first started competing, and it was so good that we kept going year after year. We attended the last one before [COVID] in 2018 ... This year, I've signed up for the athletics track and field events, and the Masters Mile.”

Roberts travels to the Red Centre with her husband Michael, who made the transition from spectator to competitor in 2010, also competing in the athletics events.

“The Masters Games has always been a highlight in Alice Springs. I go because it’s enjoyable, the change of scenery, it's beautiful Country, and it's a healthy event to take part in,” she says.

“And having older people competing makes you go 'wow, they can do that' and you see these elite athletes coming back and competing which is great.”

NT Major Events Company Head of Events and Operations Aimee Luxton says the Masters Games welcomes 300 interstate and international visitors in Mparntwe/ Alice Springs.

"The community is encouraged to bring the Alice Springs spirit and head to the Opening Ceremony at TIO Traeger Park Oval and Closing Party, where there will be plenty of entertainment and food available at the free family-friendly events.”

While official registrations have closed, a small number of sports are still accepting late registrations. Go check it out.

Masters Games Opening Ceremony
WHEN SAT 12 OCT | 5-10.30PM 
AT TIO TRAEGER PARK OVAL 
COST FREE

Masters Games Closing Party
WHEN SAT 19 OCT | 5.30-11.30PM 
AT LASSESTERS 
COST FREE

INFO alicespringsmastersgames.com.au

^{Header, thumbnail & inset: NT Major Events}