International Games News

May 1998

World Firefighter Games

1800 Firefighters from 26 nations gathered in Durban South Africa for the fifth World Firefighters Games from May 17th to 23rd. The Firefighters games have for the past six years been the largest competitions in the world in terms of the number of sports and events open for competition. The competitions include traditional team sports such as basketball, soccer, rugby and softball; individual sports such as archery, judo, powerlifting and triathlon, and less strenuous events such as darts, poker and billiards.

The highlight of the games are the specialized firefighter events in Life Support, Bucket Brigade, High Angle Rescue, Hose Laying, Vehicle Extrication and the Toughest Firefighter Alive which showcase the skills of those who risk their lives on a daily basis to protect others lives and property.

The games have been held every two years since 1990. The host for the 2000 games is Mantes-en-Yvelines, France.

Haze is still a concern for Kuala Lumpur

Concerns from around the world about the recent pollution problems from forest fires in Southeast Asia have prompted the Commonwealth Games organizers to issue reassurances once again that everything possible will be done to assure the Commonwealth Games will be held in a smog-free environment.

The New Zealand Commonwealth team has expanded it's medical staff to 12 people, to deal with the expected difficulties. Team doctor Richard Edmond says the team will wear masks and use oxygen bottles if necessary. (AF Press, Irish Times)

Goodwill Games swimming competition will use unique team format

This summers Goodwill Games swimming competition will see an innovative competitive twist. Teams from the US,China,Germany and a World All-Star team for the women, and the US, Russia, Germany and World-All Stars for men, will compete in a round robin dual meet competition. Each team will be comprised of 18 swimmers and will split prize money of $50,000 for first, $25,000 for second, $15,000 for third and $10,000 for the fourth place team. (Reuters)

Asian Games Venues in Place

Despite the Asian financial slowdown, facilities for the 1998 Asian Games in December are nearing completion. Organizers have been able to calm earlier worries that the facilities would not be ready in time.

last update 11/02/03