Goodwill Games

07/30/2001

30-Day Countdown Kicks Off!

THE countdown to the most exciting event on the 2001 sporting calendar hit the home stretch today with spectacular celebrations marking 30-days till the Goodwill Games officially begin.

2001 Goodwill Games Chairman Wayne Goss gave a roll call of 20 of the sporting legends confirmed to compete at the Games including Michael Johnson, Maurice Greene, Marion Jones, Ian Thorpe, Pieter van den Hoogenband, Inge de Bruijn and Michelle Kwan.

Mr Goss also introduced some home grown Queensland talent who will have an opportunity to shine on the world stage in August / September.

Brisbane figure skating couple Portia and Francis Rugby joined rhythmic gymnast Eliza Gower, artistic gymnasts Danielle Kelly and Damien Istria, weightlifter Anthony Martin and boxerJustin Kane in the Queen St Mall for the countdown celebrations.

Mr Goss said ticket sales had surged in recent weeks, reflecting the enormous enthusiasm for the Games across Australia.

"People are realising that the Goodwill Games are almost here, and want to make sure that they don't miss their chance to catch these sporting heroes in action," Mr Goss said.

"Together with our dazzling celebration program RED …paint the town, the 2001 Goodwill Games is shaping up to be an irresistible combination of world class athletes and world class entertainers.

"There are plenty of great seats available at both the Opening Gala and our sports program, so people still have time to book their seats at the centre of the action," he said.

Capping off this afternoon's activities was a concert by popstars Bardot, who will appear at the 2001 Goodwill Games Opening Gala and the RED celebration's free riverconcerts.

Today it is exactly one month 'til the Games begin, and to mark the occasion, more than 20 pin traders from around Australia traded their wares in the Queen Street Mall. The Goodwill Games also released its One-Month to Go pin - the latest in its hugely popular countdown pin series.

Media information:
Lisa White, 2001 Goodwill Games Brisbane
Ph: 07 3233 2084 (direct) / Mobile: 0404 842 370
email: lisa.white@2001gwgbrisbane.com.au

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