Perth scores 2008 FINA World Masters Swimming Championships

7/4/06
Sport and Recreation Minister John Kobelke today announced that Perth will host the 2008 FINA World Masters Swimming Championships.
"The championships have the potential to attract the biggest-ever influx of sports people to a sporting event in this State," Mr Kobelke said.
"Organisers expect between 6,000 and 8,000 competitors will come to Perth to compete in swimming, diving, water polo and synchronised swimming events.
"Early estimates are that the economic impact will be about $15million as competitors and supporters take advantage of the opportunity to visit our beautiful State."
The FINA World Masters Championships will be held from April 16 - 23, 2008 and will be staged primarily at Challenge Stadium with open water swimming to be conducted on the Swan River.
The championships are open to competitors aged 25 and over.
"Perth has a proud tradition of hosting major aquatic events, being the only city in the world to have staged two World Swimming Championships in 1991 and 1998," the Minister said.
The Commonwealth water polo championships for men and women were held at Challenge Stadium this year, as a precursor to the Melbourne Commonwealth Games.
Masters Swimming WA President Jack Busch said Perth had a track record for hosting successful major national and international events in Western Australia.
"We have proven expertise and capability and are excited about hosting this, the most prestigious and popular event on the Masters swimming calendar," Mr Busch said.
"Having swimmers aged 25 and over from around the world competing in Perth will be a fantastic opportunity to promote the benefits of swimming to adults."
Minister's Office - 9222 9211