News & Events: Media Releases

Kareena Private Hospital, Ward Clerk - Sharon Hamill – participates in World Masters Games

October 2009

The World Masters Games were held in Sydney 10-18 October 2009. There were 28000 participants entered in numerous events at various venues across the city and the world’s largest sporting event held to date. I was privileged to attend the opening ceremony and it was great to witness the camaraderie between all the different nations and sporting bodies. As I work on a medical ward where I am in contact with sick and elderly people, it was inspirational to see so many senior participants enjoying themselves.

I was part of the “Shuins” Netball team that was entered in the 50’s women competition and made up of players mainly from Sutherland and Bankstown associations. We all entered camp for the week alias (Bankstown Sports Club) so we could concentrate on the job in hand. Our competition was very tough and included teams from New Zealand and Canada, we won all our matches during the rounds, only beating Canada by 1 point with 1 second to play. Unfortunately we lost the rematch to Canada in the semi-finals which put us in the bronze medal contention. Another hard fought game and Shuins came out on top 46 to 44.

It was a very successful week, not only coming away with a bronze medal but it was great to part of such an event. The spirit of the games was very uplifting, but the support from the community in general was unexpected and greatly received.

The more elderly participants were an inspiration to us all to follow the games motto: FIT, FUN and FOREVER YOUNG!