The Australian Masters Games and the Heart Foundation have renewed their partnership to encourage and educate Australians on the importance of heart health and being active.
Celebrating their second Games together, the partnership will see the Heart Foundation continue as the official charity partner of the Australian Masters Games, with participants able to support the charity’s initiatives through donations upon registering and peer-to-peer fundraising.
Taking place in Perth this October, the 2021 Australian Masters Games is set to see over 8,000 participants descend on Perth to compete in around 50 sports including softball, athletics, dragon boating and lawn bowls.
2021 Australian Masters Games General Manager, Kirsten Drower acknowledged the importance of the Heart Foundation partnership.
“We’re delighted that Games participants will not only be running, jumping and throwing their way to good health at the Games, they will also be supporting the Heart Foundation and inspiring others to get active,” said Ms Drower.
“This year’s Games is set to feature an extensive sporting program that will give all participants an opportunity to get active, social and adventurous. Set within the picturesque surroundings of sunny Perth, this year’s event will truly be a Games like no other.”
Heart Foundation CEO, Adjunct Professor John Kelly recognised the synergies between the two initiatives and the importance of maintaining an active lifestyle, particularly for Australians over the age of 30.
“One of the primary aims of the Australian Masters Games is to encourage being active for people who are over the age of 30, which aligns perfectly with our focus on heart healthy eating and being active,” Professor Kelly said.
“Physical inactivity is a leading risk factor for heart disease, which continues to be the single leading cause of death in Australia. Currently, more than three in four Australian adults are not active enough for good health.
“But the good news is that heart disease is largely preventable. Being active and eating healthy can help reduce your risk of heart disease and also manage risk factors such as high blood pressure and being overweight.
“We are delighted to partner with the Australian Masters Games and look forward to seeing participants take care of their hearts by making changes to their lifestyles,” Professor Kelly said.
The Australian Masters Games is one of Australia’s largest multisport festivals, bringing together participants from all around Australia. The mass participation event encourages physical activity for people over the age of 30. With no qualification criteria and around 50 sports on the program, there is something for everyone.
The Australian Masters Games will take place from Saturday 9 – 16 October 2021 in various locations across Perth.
