Taranaki Masters Games to include weight lifting for the first time

Laureen Hammersley (left) and Sharon Cooney (right) lifting weights in preparation for the Masters Games

A new event is on the schedule for the Taranaki Masters Games this year.

While the Games have been running for 22 years, this is the first time a weight lifting (push/pull) event has been introduced.

The Masters Games, which runs in Taranaki from March 14 to 17, has three age categories - 40-49, 50-59 and 60-plus.

Hayden Mattock, a trainer at Stratford's Lions Den, said including weight lifting into the Games was brought up two years ago.

"I want to really push the idea that you can be strong, no matter what age."

The weightlifting section starts at 9.30am at the Lions Den with the 60-plus category first. There will be a barbecue when it's finished.

"It is great the games are becoming varied. We get people registering who are outside Taranaki," Hayden says. "No matter what age you can still progress."

To register for the Masters Games there are paper forms at the Lions Den or apply online at the Taranaki master games website www.tmg.org.nz. There is a $15 registration fee and $5 per event. If athletes enter two or more events the price is capped at $10. There is a late fee of $25 for registrations after March 7.

Competitors get a free shirt or towel.

To train for the games or find out more contact the Lions Den or visit their website www.lionsdengym.co.nz/events