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12:39 AM Wed 13 May 2009 GMT
Premier Nathan Rees has announced that His Royal Highness The Crown Prince of Denmark will visit Sydney this October to compete at the world's largest multi-sport event, the Sydney 2009 World Masters Games.
Crown Prince Frederik will attend the Opening Ceremony at ANZ Stadium on Sunday 11 October, and partner Sydney-based sailor Chris Meehan in the 35+ Tasar Sailing competition from 13-16 October.
Premier Rees said Crown Prince Frederik has a close affinity with Australia and Sydney and it will be a pleasure to welcome him in October.
'Crown Prince Frederik's attendance is a vote of confidence for Sydney as an international destination and a vote of confidence for the World Masters Games,' Mr Rees said.
'This is a high-profile addition to the biggest event Sydney will host this year, an event that will provide a $50 million boost to the NSW economy.
'I'm sure all Sydney-siders will welcome Crown Prince Frederik along with the 25,000 athletes from over 100 countries expected to take part in the Games.'
Mr Rees said the NSW and Commonwealth Governments have both contributed $8.5 million and will provide additional support services to stage the World Masters Games.
'Sydney is a major international events city and the World Masters Games will be another highlight with over 8400 registrations already received for the event.'
Minister for Tourism Jodi McKay said Crown Prince Frederik joins other high-profile competitors and ambassadors registered for the Games including Olympic legend Murray Rose, ABC Radio's Adam Spencer and Fox Sports commentator and former footballer Andy Harper.
'The motto of the Games is 'fit fun and forever young' and there will be a fantastic spirit and atmosphere throughout Sydney in October,' Ms McKay said.
'The Games are open to everyone, not just elite athletes and will see 28 sports competitions held across 72 Sydney venues, including many Olympic sites.
'To enter the Games people need only meet their sport's minimum age, which ranges between 25 and 35 years.'
Games registrations are open until 31 July at www.2009worldmasters.com.
by NSW Government media
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