Great news for athletes looking to plan ahead for the next few years with their summer training. The  New Zealand Government has confirmed that they will continue to support the Winter Games NZ until 2017. The events take place every two years and are sponsored by Audi. ...Â
With the growing clamour for a Winter Commonwealth Games, this could be a great multi event competition that would give the athletes heading to the 2018 Winter Olympic Games vital big games atmosphere experience prior to the 2018 Games in Korea.
Audi quattro Winter Games NZ CEO, Arthur Klap said he was delighted by the Government's support, which was announced by Economic Development Minister, Steven Joyce. “I very much look forward to working with the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) in growing the reach of the Games into markets important to New Zealand, specifically into Asia. Winter Games NZ 2017 will be a key qualifying event for the 2018 Winter Olympics in Korea,” said Arthur. “What we have achieved in just three events in terms of our standing on the world stage is nothing short of remarkable. Having the confidence of Government backing for the 2015 and 2017 events will allow us to build on this and continue to present New Zealand at the forefront of winter sports with all the associated economic benefits, not just for the host region of the Southern Lakes but also New Zealand as a whole.”
In the past David Ryding has spent time down in New Zealand training and has raced in the Winter Games in the past, notching up some impressive results in quality fields. The Delancey British Women's Team are currently down in New Zealand training and racing - Charlie Guest has already notched up a race win and another podium.
The event hosts competition in five major sports including Alpine skiing, Curling, Cross-Country, Freeskiing and Snowboarding.
For more information go to www.wintergamesnz.com
Picture: Charlie Guest competing at the Delancey British Alpine Ski Championships in 2014