28 sports confirmed for Masters Games

Twenty-eight sports and 45 disciplines were today confirmed as part of the World Masters Games 2017 programme at an announcement at Westhaven Marina in Auckland today.

Eight sports offer a para class, while the inclusion of uniquely Pacific sports or disciplines such as waka ama within the canoe/kayak category, and Weta class sailing, help give the event a distinctly kiwi feel.

World Masters Games 2017 Chief Executive Jennah Wootten said 16 sports within the programme are core and must be staged but the remaining optional sports offer an opportunity for the host city to bring something new to the table.

"Naturally we've woven in sports that are important to New Zealand's sporting culture - such as rugby, netball and touch - as well as a range of sports that will showcase our stunning beaches, harbours, lakes and waterfront, all of which are a key part of Auckland's world-class reputation as a beautiful harbour city."

Also announced were a further four ambassadors to join the inaugural five - Hamish Carter, Anthony Mosse, Jenny-May Coffin, Garth Barfoot and Susie Simcock - announced as part of the 'three years to go' milestone event on 30 April.

The expanded line-up features former All Black Bryan 'BeeGee' Williams, athletics' Allison Roe, surf lifesaver Cory Hutchings and football international, Noah Hickey.

"We are extremely fortunate to have such an amazing groups of masters' sports advocates join our ambassadors team to help us tell the World Masters Games 2017 story here and overseas."

Peter Miskimmin, Chief Executive of Sport NZ, said the sports selected provide many options for masters athletes, no matter what age or capability, and truly bring to life the 'sport for all' ethos.

"We expect masters athletes from around the world will enjoy the chance to try some new sports along with the old favourites," Miskimmin said.

Core sports are archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, canoe/kayak, cycling, football, hockey, orienteering, rowing, shooting, softball, squash, table tennis, triathlon and weightlifting.

The 12 optional sports are baseball, golf, lawn bowls, netball, sailing, rugby, surf lifesaving, swimming, tennis, touch, volleyball and water polo.

Two sports - weightlifting and orienteering - will hold their annual World Masters Championships at World Masters Games 2017.

The eight para sports are archery, athletics, canoe/kayak, rowing, table tennis, tennis, lawn bowls and swimming.

With the critical sports selection process complete, the planning team will now turn its attention to the evaluation and selection of the more than 45 venues required to deliver the event.

"We expect to announce the venues, including those for the opening and closing ceremonies, before the end of the year," Wootten said.