Goodwill Games

03/31/2001

150 Day Countdown to Games

There are just 150 days to go until the biggest international sporting event of 2001 lands in Brisbane, the 2001 Goodwill Games to be held from 29 August to 9 September.

2001 Goodwill Games Chief Executive, Campbell Rose, said planning was well advanced to deliver a hugely successful event.

"With 150 days to go until the Games kick off, I am pleased to confirm we are on track and on schedule," he said.

"Planning for the operational aspects of the Games is well advanced, with several key milestones achieved in the past few weeks, including the completion and successful testing of the track at ANZ Stadium.

"The recruitment and training of our all-important volunteer workforce is also underway. Our 140 key team leaders and supervisors have been selected and are now preparing to recruit the remaining 2000-odd volunteer coordinators and assistants.

"We've also recruited all our sponsors and will announce them to the public in the next week."

Mr Rose said public excitement and anticipation for the Games was mounting daily.

"Awareness and excitement of the Goodwill Games has grown exponentially since the launch of our advertising campaign last month," he said.

"This campaign, coupled with the widespread media attention we've been receiving lately, has created massive interest in the Games.

"Every day we receive more and more calls and emails from people wanting to know when and how they can get their hands on some tickets to be a part of this landmark event for Brisbane.

"With tickets going on sale on 20 April, the wait is almost over. I can only imagine the anticipation that will grip the city after that."

RECENT MILESTONES IN THE MARCH TO THE GAMES

Venue Upgrades

New track at ANZ Stadium installed and tested.
New scoreboard and timing systems installed at ANZ Stadium.
New scoreboard installed at Chandler Aquatic Centre.

Games Workforce

Team leaders and supervisors have been recruited and their training commenced.
Recruitment of other volunteer positions to start next week.

Sport Announcements

Prizemoney announced for diving, athletics and triathlon.
Teams announced for surf lifesaving, diving and basketball.
Several international athletes have confirmed their willingness to participate, including Marion Jones, Ian Thorpe, Maurice Green and Ato Boldon.

Awarding of Important Contracts
A number of contracts have been awarded, most recently for:

Volunteer clothing
City beautification and pageantry
Games family fleet
Flowers for medal ceremonies

Launch of Advertising Campaign

Advertising campaign across radio, television, cinema, video and press launched on 22 March.

Media information:
Lisa White, 2001 Goodwill Games Brisbane
Mobile: 0404 842 370

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