The 2023 SA Masters Games has just concluded, and it was a resounding success for the Copper Coast community. The good news is that the Games will be returning to the region next year, making it the first region to host the Masters Games in consecutive years. This is an exciting feat for the area, and Sport SA CEO Leah Cassidy is thrilled about it.
According to Ms Cassidy, the success of the 2023 Games could be felt by everyone who attended, and she is looking forward to seeing it return again in 2024. The Masters Games is a multi-sport event designed to allow mature aged sports people opportunities to participate in the sports of their choice and to compete with their peers.
“You could feel the energy buzzing in the air – it is a really excellent means of activating the community,” Ms Cassidy says. “We are pleased to announce the Copper Coast as the host for the 2024 games and look forward to returning next year.”
The Masters Games is a multi-sport event designed to allow mature aged sports people opportunities to participate in the sports of their choice and to compete with their peers.
In 2023, almost 1100 participants took part in the events, spanning across the council area of 15,652 people. The number of participants is higher than other previous regions to host the games. Mayor Roslyn Talbot credits the high number of participants to the work and dedication of the community.
“Our numbers for this year are still higher than the previous three regions to host this event, and that speaks volumes about the efforts of our staff and volunteers who coordinate the sports, events and everything behind the scenes,” Mayor Talbot says. “It also would not be possible without the Copper Coast and Masters communities, who continue to rally behind this event and make it an experience competitors and their families want to come back for.” said Mayor Talbot
The Copper Coast Masters Chairperson Lynn Spurling is also thrilled with the result, considering that this year’s event offered 7 fewer sports than in 2021. According to Mrs Spurling, they encountered a few more hurdles this year, with some clubs struggling to secure permits and licenses while other sports clashed with local fixtures or events.
“We did encounter a few more hurdles this year as well with some clubs struggling to secure permits and licences, while other sports clashed with local fixtures or events,” Mrs Spurling says.
“Now we are continuing the momentum and working with coordinators and volunteers to try and get a record-breaking 30 sports up and running for 2024 – it’s great to see how committed they already are because each of them play a big part in the success of the SA Masters Games.”
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Photo Courtesy Sport SA
Courtesy Sport SA