Media Release
Arafura Games coming alive for young athletes
18 April 2007
The Arafura Games will come alive this week for 600 students who are competing in a two-day inter-school sports carnival at Marrara Sports Complex.
As part of the Arafura Alive competition, students from 13 Territory schools will represent 20 'adopted' countries in 10 Arafura Games sports events.
Employment, Education and Training Chief Executive Margaret Banks said, "About 300 students will participate each day in a range of events including Aussie Rules, Badminton, Basketball, Disabled Athletics, Football, Golf, Hockey, Lawn Bowls, Table Tennis and Volleyball".
"In preparing for a day of healthy physical exercise as part of goNT week, these primary students have been learning about the international teams visiting during Arafura Games 2007. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in the disabled athletics event".
"Able-bodied students will be temporarily disabled to compete in four events: a 60m wheel chair sprint, a 100m visually impaired run, a cerebral palsy or amputee long jump and a 60m relay with a member from each disability".
"The top scoring school will receive medallions at the end of each day’s program. Scores will be based on a team’s sporting results, sportsmanship and success in visually representing their country," Ms Banks said.
Sports activities will be co-ordinated by sport development officers, DEET staff and teachers, with the Arafura Games mascot, Rocky, also appearing to cheer the students on.
Photo Opportunities: 10.30 am Thursday 19 April, Arafura Stadium at Marrara Sports Complex - Disabled Athletics Event.