Model Event & Opening Ceremony

Yesterday the Aussies got their first taste of orienteering in Taiwain, with a look at the model terrain in Central Park, Kaohsiung. It was good to get out for a run here in Kaohsiung, and get into the local climate.
The whole city has really had a makeover in preparation for these Games, with new development along the "Love River", providing a nice green esplanade in the city center, as well as the complete redevelopment of Central Park, not only providing a suitable location for our model event but a great place for the locals to practice their Tai Chi in the morning!

The whole city and its people have been very receptive of the athletes with volunteers assigned to each sport, as well as each team, to provide assistance throughout the day.

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The model event was only a short jog from our hotel, which was great to get the legs moving!

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Kathryn taking in the model area.

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Simon making sure he stays hydrated!

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Hot and steamy after the model event!

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Central Park - model map



In the afternoon the team rested and got some sleep in preparation for a late night at the opening ceremony, with some tropical downpours throughout the day, it made for a steamy night at the opening ceremony!

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Excited before the march into the Stadium.

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Getting to know the other Aussie athletes before the athlete parade. The other sports represented from Australia included, Ultimate Frisbee, Sumo, Parachuting, and Wakeboarding.




Entering the stadium in the athlete parade.

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Hanny inside the stadium, with a packed house of 40,000 on a steamy night.

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All team lining up after the athlete parade.

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Rob and Kathryn enjoying the Opening Ceremony

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All the Aussie Team at the Opening Ceremony of the World Games 2009

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The massive fireworks display kicks into action!!

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They certainly put on a great show for the 40,000 spectators and the athletes!

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Simon showing his delight with the express trip back to the hotel after the opening ceremony. With the competition beginning soon, to be able to get back fast to rest up was important, and thanks to our gun Taxi driver, who wouldn't even let police stop him, we got back to the hotel in record time!!


Watch the Sprint action live this afternoon from 16.00 AEST.


Aussie starters:

Hanny - 14.07
Kathryn - 14.14

Simon - 15.11
Julian - 15.24

Watch live here