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AFTNews, AFTNews, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ

Les Mills Asia Pacific Celebrates Major Indoor Cycling Milestone

The OG of all indoor cycling programs has turned 100 – and Les Mills Asia Pacific is marking the occasion by hosting RPM 100 celebrations, powered by 100 BODY BIKES, at Carriageworks in Sydney, on Sunday 12 November.

Locally and globally, RPM is one of the most popular workouts from pre-choreographed group fitness juggernaut Les Mills. And this November, Les Mills Asia Pacific will be celebrating a major milestone for the program, when they launch the 100* Release.

RPM® is a group indoor cycling workout where participants control the intensity. It’s fun, low impact and can burn up to 500 calories a session! Set to great music, each class takes participants on a journey of hill climbs, sprints and flat riding. This program lets participants draw on the group’s energy and find rhythm in the music. Participants control their own resistance levels and speed, which enables them to increase their fitness level over time.

RPM is one of three indoor cycling programs that Les Mills offers. Over the years, it has gained a huge following, and has become a favourite among many indoor cycling enthusiasts around the world. This is largely due to its exhilarating and immersive experience, which combines energising music, choreographed routines, and a motivational Instructor who coaches participants to perform beyond perceived limits, so they can perform at their best both inside and outside the cycle studio!

RPM is considered a journey not a race, and is available as a Live and, in some clubs, Virtual, workout.

With each new Quarterly Release of RPM, participants are introduced to fresh routines and music to keep them highly engaged and motivated to return.

Ryan Hogan, Chief Executive Officer of Les Mills Asia Pacific says, “Every quarter for 25 years, we’ve released a new RPM workout for Instructors, Club Partners and members.

That’s 100 workouts’ worth of scientific research, sensational music, choreography design, and Masterclass video production (which are used by Instructors to help them learn the Quarterly Releases). Plus, every three months we’ve held Quarterly Workshops

– both In-Person and Online in recent years – to support the upskilling and education of our rockstar RPM Instructors.”

“The 100″ Release of this epic indoor cycling program is a big deal for so many people,” Ryan adds. “To mark the occasion, we’ve got Glen Ostergaard (RPM Program Director from Les Mills International), Sarah Ostergaard (Head of RPM Training at Les Mills International), and Lee Smith (one of the original RPM Trainers/Presenters for Les Mills As ori has late paris alertoreous Materiages and tmo

Adding to the excitement, and ensuring the indoor cycling experience will be premium, is the partnership between Les Mills Asia Pacific and BODY BIKE Asia Pacific.

“BODY BIKE is a leading manufacturer of indoor bikes, with an impeccable reputation for their exceptional performance, durability and quality,” says Ryan.

The partnership will see riders at the RPM 100 celebrations experience the BODY BIKE SMART®+ indoor bike.

“We’re supplying 100 forest green, ocean blue and black-coloured bikes for this event,” Tony Zonato, BODY BIKE Asia Pacific’s General Manager of Operations and Sales. “The green and blue models have our sustainable bike covers, which are made from recycled plastic, and every bike has over 50% of its weight made from recycled product, as the flywheel and crank assembly are made from recycled steel. It’s a really cool bike, and one of the most environmentally conscious on the planet!”

“In addition to its awesome sustainability factor, these bikes are also cutting-edge due to their advanced features such as real-time data tracking and seamless connectivity,” adds Tony. “These bikes always provide a smooth and authentic cycling experience, replicating the feel of riding on the open road. They’re a top-of-the-line bike, chosen by leading clubs who seek the precision and reliability that enables Instructors to lead their classes with confidence, knowing that they have the best tools at their disposal.

The BODY BIKE SMART®+ cycles are also equipped with a generator ensuring a battery-free, eco-friendly and self-sustaining workout, which is a revolutionary innovation called ‘SMART Charge’, where with every pedal stroke you create power!

“Power to recharge your mind, power to recharge your body, and power to charge your phone!” says Tony. “The power generated by the user allows for data transfer via ANT+ and Bluetooth®, and it supports SMART Charge. This means participants at RPM 100 can bring a USB cable, plug it in and when they start pedalling, if they’ve downloaded the BODY BIKE® Indoor Cycling app from Google Play or the Appstore, they’ll be able to get their data displayed right in front of them!”

The collaboration between Les Mills and BODY BIKE for the RPM100 program filming represents a convergence of two industry leaders who share a passion for delivering exceptional fitness experiences and the mission to create a fitter planet. “Together, we are set to create an unforgettable event that celebrates the success of the RPM program, while inspiring and empowering Instructors to continue motivating their participants to reach new fitness heights,” says Tony.

“This partnership reflects a shared commitment to excellence, innovation and environmental mindfulness in the fitness industry,” Ryan adds. “And these six classes are each set to be a thrilling experience, that will bring together Les Mills Instructors and fitness enthusiasts from around Australia and Southeast Asia.”

Tickets to the RPM 100 celebrations go on sale for Les Mills Instructors at midday

(AEST) today (Tuesday 26 September) and are expected to sell out quickly. Regular tickets go on sale at midday (AEST) on Thursday 28 September.

For full details or to subscribe for updates about RPM 100 celebrations visit www.lesmills.com.au/events/rpm100

Continue reading Les Mills Asia Pacific Celebrates Major Indoor Cycling Milestone →

AFTNews, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ

Son of TV Legend Don Lane on Reducing Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease

Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA), UNSW Sydney

Son of TV legend Don Lane ran his first ever Marathon in the 2023 Sydney Marathon event, in support of dementia research led by the Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA).

PJ Lane was just 24 years of age when he lost his larger-than-life father to the disease, and since becoming an Ambassador for CHeBA in 2012 has made it his mission to understand more about Alzheimer’s and other dementias, which research indicates is triggered not only by genetics but also by lifestyle factors.

September is World Alzheimer’s month with Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI) recently releasing this year’s theme focusing on the critical role of risk reduction to stave off, delay or prevent dementia.

There is a growing body of research evidence that shows there are 12 potentially modifiable risk factors – with a key one being physical inactivity.

Other proven risk factors for dementia include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, infrequent social contact, head injuries, and conditions including diabetes, hearing loss, depression, obesity, and hypertension – all of which individuals have some control over.

The remaining risk factors include air pollution and restricted access to early education, which governments are responsible for addressing.

ADI says that up to 40% of projected dementia cases could be delayed or potentially even avoided by addressing just 12 risk factors.

PJ, a former professional basketballer who is currently studying a Masters of High Performance Sport, says that losing his Dad to Alzheimer’s disease has made him to everything in his power to reduce his own risk of the disease.

“I’ve often questioned the genetic component of the disease,” says PJ.

“We’re all getting older,” he says. “Although we can’t change our genes or stop ageing, there are fundamental changes all of us can make to reduce our own risk – and remaining active throughout our lives is important.”

To acknowledge this fact PJ chose to up the ante on his cardiovascular health this year and has been running 7 hours a week in preparation for the 17 September event.

CHeBA’s Co-Directors and world-leaders in the ageing brain, Professor Henry Brodaty and Professor Perminder Sachdev, congratulated PJ on his enormous efforts to advocate for awareness into healthy brain ageing, his personal drive to reduce risk of cognitive decline as well and his tireless efforts to raise funds to advance research.

With over 400,000 people living with dementia in Australia and approximately 55 million people worldwide, we have reached a point in history where advancing research is critical.

“Research is key to better understand these risk factors and how we can intervene to modify them and help delay dementia for future generations,” says PJ.

PJ says he continues to be inspired by the prospect that medical research can show early markers of memory decline so that brain disease can be detected before the onset of Alzheimer’s.

“It’s a privilege to work with the team at CHeBA. With the brilliant scientific minds of Henry Brodaty and Perminder Sachdev leading the way to research healthier brain ageing, it has been a wonderful relationship and a Centre I’m extremely proud to support.”

Donate to PJ at: https://sm23.grassrootz.com/cheba/pj-lane

The Centre for Healthy Brain Ageing (CHeBA) is a premier research institute at UNSW Sydney. Learn more here: www.cheba.unsw.edu.au

Continue reading Son of TV Legend Don Lane on Reducing Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease →

Features Australia/NZ

Dementia Australia Honours Patron Sir Michael Parkinson CBE

Via PRNewsGIG

Dementia Australia honours renowned broadcaster and Dementia Australia Patron Sir Michael Parkinson CBE, affectionately known as Parky, following his passing at the age of 88.

In honour of his mother, Freda Rose, who lived with vascular dementia, Sir Michael was a valued supporter of Dementia Australia and the former Alzheimer’s Australia NSW. In 2010, he was appointed as Honorary International Ambassador, Alzheimer’s Australia NSW and in 2017 accepted the role of Patron Dementia Australia.

(L-R) In 2011, Dementia Australia Patrons Sir Michael Parkinson CBE and Ita Buttrose AC OBE surrounded by former Ambassadors PJ Lane and The Hon Maxine McKew AM and Dementia Australia Ambassadors Natarsha Belling and Doris Younane.

As Patron Dementia Australia and an Ambassador for Alzheimer’s Australia NSW Sir Michael generously contributed to raising awareness and vital funds by sharing about the impact of dementia on his mother and his family.

Dementia Australia CEO Maree McCabe AM acknowledged Sir Michael’s extraordinary support in Australia, the United Kingdom and around the world for raising awareness about dementia.

(L-R) Dementia Australia Patron Sir Michael Parkinson CBE and Master of Ceremonies and Dementia Australia Ambassador Natarsha Belling, NSW Parliament House event 2011.

“Since 2010 he was guest speaker at a number of significant Dementia Australia fundraising events, appeared in our Fight Dementia television advertisement in 2011, often shared his experience in media interviews, supported Memory Walk & Jog campaigns and other important fundraising activity,” Ms McCabe said.

“Sir Michael’s committed and far-reaching advocacy has made a profound and lasting difference to the lives of people of all ages living with dementia, their families and carers in Australia and around the world.

Dementia Australia Patron Sir Michael Parkinson CBE, NSW Parliament House event 2011.

“He was so gracious and generous and we are so honoured and grateful to have had his support.
Fellow Dementia Australia Patron and Chair of ABC Ita Buttrose AC OBE recognised Sir Michael’s invaluable influence.
“I had the privilege of being interviewed by him and interviewing him for television and for Dementia Australia,” Ms Buttrose said.

“Michael was the most generous of supporters. He was incredibly giving with his time and sharing his personal experience to help others.

(L-R) Dementia Australia Patrons Sir Michael Parkinson CBE and Ita Buttrose AC OBE and Dementia Australia Ambassador The Hon John Watkins AM.

“Nothing was ever too much trouble for him.

“Like everyone whose lives have been impacted by dementia, he knew what his advocacy work meant, and he worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds.”

Dementia Australia Newsletter – 2011.

Dementia Australia Newsletter – 2011.

A group of Dementia Australia staff sent Sir Michael Parkinson CBE a thank you photo after one the many successful fundraising events.

 

Dementia Australia is the source of trusted information, education and services for the estimated more than 400,000 Australians living with dementia, and the more than 1.5 million people involved in their care. We advocate for positive change and support vital research. We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible. No matter how you are impacted by dementia or who you are, we are here for you.

For support, please contact the National Dementia Helpline on 1800 100 500. An interpreter service is available. The National Dementia Helpline is funded by the Australian Government. People looking for information can also visit dementia.org.au

Media contacts: Megan Jones, Media & Communications Advisor, 0411 461 678, megan.jones@dementia.org.au
When talking or writing about dementia please refer to Dementia-Friendly Language Guidelines.
If this story has prompted any questions or concerns, please call the National Dementia Helpline 1800 100 500 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or visit dementia.org.au.

Text and Photos by Dementia Australia.

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AFTNews, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Fitness

Four reasons to study fitness in Australia

Via PRNews/GIG

Fitness is a thriving sector in Australia. The country has quickly become one of the top destinations, for individuals wanting to further their education. Sport, whether for recreation or health and fitness, has become an inseparable part of Australian culture. The fitness industry is continuously growing, and this is reflected in the demand for fitness jobs over the last few years. Because of their love of sports, Australian institutions are an excellent fit for international students who want to learn about the science of exercise and sports.

If you want to further your education and career in fitness, keep reading to learn why studying in Australia is the best choice for you.

Diverse programme selections

One of the many benefits of studying fitness in Australia is the variety of programmes offered by Australian institutions.  With these diverse options, individuals can choose a programme that aligns with their interests and goals.

Six of the top 100 universities in the world are located in Australia, including some of the top universities that offer various fitness programmes. Individuals interested in becoming personal trainers can take courses specialising in personal training, while those interested in recreational sports can take a diploma in sport and recreation. This variety enables students to select a course that best meets their interests and career objectives. Moreover, completing an exercise and sports science diploma can lead to a variety of professional pathways both in Australia and abroad.

Dundee Kim seated left, with his team at Fit Education Australia.

Top-notch education

Home to a world-class educational system, Australia has built a reputation for offering high-quality education to the fitness industry, among others.  As a result, Australia’s fitness programmes are well regarded on a national and international level, and this recognition has assisted many graduates in finding jobs related to their subjects of study.

Furthermore, the Australian fitness sector is quite competitive and demands a high level of knowledge and professionalism. As a result, the courses provided in Australia are designed to address these needs and provide graduates with the knowledge and abilities they need to be successful in the field.

Nearly 100 courses from 25 Australian institutes are accredited by Exercise & Sports Science Australia (ESSA), the professional organisation dedicated to creating, promoting, and maintaining the careers of tertiary-trained exercise and sports science professionals. This is to ensure that exercise and sports science courses meet a high standard of excellence.

Dundee’s Boxing Gym Brisbane, where you can train with champions

Modern infrastructure with a vast network

From small gyms in the alleyways to big personal training studios, the fitness industry in Australia is well-equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. Many gyms and fitness centres include various equipment and facilities, such as cardio machines, weight machines, and group exercise programmes. There are also numerous fitness plans and applications available online. The programmes offer personalised workout plans and diet recommendations that cater to people with specific needs.

In addition, many established companies, such as Dundee and Fit Education, are investing in the fitness industry, providing networking and employment opportunities for graduates. The industry events, seminars, and workshops these establishments organise allow individuals to network and learn from professionals in the field. Networking is vital for individuals just beginning their fitness careers as it may lead to future employment opportunities.

Dundee Kim and team at Fit Education Australia

Growing fitness industry

The fitness industry in Australia is a vibrant and vital component of the Australian economy. Over the last few years, the industry has grown significantly, with a number of new fitness facility chains established nationwide. This comprises smaller fitness studios, indoor and outdoor personal training facilities, health clubs, fitness centres, and fitness franchises.

These businesses offer various fitness and exercise services, including personal training, classes, memberships, and casual gym use. Australians spend an estimated $8.5 billion annually on fitness-related products and services, with the fitness sector alone bringing in $3 billion for the country’s economy. This growth has also resulted in an increase in the number of fitness events, seminars, and workshops, allowing individuals to thrive in this booming industry.

The takeaway

A fitness career can be both interesting and lucrative. The future also appears promising, with studies predicting a 16% increase in fitness jobs by 2024. With such high demand, you must have a solid foundation in the industry. This is where a good fitness education programme comes in. Attending the best fitness institutions in Australia may give prospective personal trainers the resources, knowledge, and abilities they need to succeed in the fitness business.

Dundee Kim pictured wtih Australian Boxer, Jeff Horn.

Text and Photos contributed by Dundee Kim, Founder of Fit Education Australia.

Initially learning the art of boxing to protect himself from bullies, Dundee Kim eventually harnessed his skills to become a two-time amateur boxing champion in South Korea. From there he migrated to Australia to become the Associate Director of International Relations, and then the Regional Director of International Relations at James Cook University. He eventually became the founder of Dundee’s Boxing & Fitness gym in Brisbane.

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AFT Features, Features Malaysia

Empowering Dreams Through Sports: The Malaysian Blind Sports Association

According to Abdullah et al. (2008)*, the nature of sports for people with disabilities is similar to that of sports for people without disabilities and has many benefits including improved quality of life, improved performance, strengthened mind, and development of endurance and strength. The Paralympics movement had undergone substantial global change in recent decades (Howe, 2008)^. Sports have a wonderful capacity to break through barriers, give people confidence, and promote a sense of community. The story of what it means to participate in athletics is being rewritten by a unique organisation at the centre of Malaysia’s sports scene. An organisation in Malaysia stands out for its commitment to ensuring that sports are accessible to and transformative for a certain population of people: the visually impaired. The Malaysian Blind Sports Association has paved the way for inclusion and empowerment for those with visual impairments by giving them a stage on which to overcome obstacles and pursue their aspirations. The Malaysian Blind Sports Association (MBSA) is dispelling myths about what people with visual impairments are capable of, in addition to physical restrictions.

Aiming for Inclusion

The Malaysian Blind Sports Association (MBSA) was founded with the goal of encouraging sports and physical activity among Malaysia’s blind and visually impaired population. The group puts in a lot of effort to give people who would otherwise have limited sports involvement due to vision impairments equal chances. At its foundation, MBSA is an advocate for diversity, welcoming people with vision impairments and giving them access to activities that go well beyond the realm of traditional athletics. The association promotes active engagement, developing a sense of belonging and self-worth, through a variety of activities and programs.

Strengthening Athletes 

It shows that aspirations are not constrained by one’s visual ability by providing a platform for others to dare to dream. Every success feeds a circle of inspiration for MBSA, inspiring others to follow their passions with unyielding tenacity. The MBSA is at the forefront of fostering a climate in which people with vision impairments can excel as athletes. Although athletics constitute the foundation of MBSA’s operations, the group is aware that their influence extends beyond merely physical activity. Sports participation fosters traits like discipline, grit, and teamwork that support holistic and personal development. The organisation gives its members the opportunity to realise their athletic potential by providing a wide variety of activities, including goalball, athletics, swimming, and bowling. These activities not only improve physical fitness but also foster traits like resilience, perseverance, and teamwork.

Zamrie Hasan, third in a row with the Australian Bowlers during the 12th Blind Bowls Championships 2023 in Tweed Heads, Gold Coast, won Silver for Malaysia.

Forming winners and supportive community

National and international champions who proudly represent Malaysia on the international stage are the result of the MBSA’s efforts. Their successes are a powerful testament to the association’s dedication to developing talent and offering venues for expansion. The MBSA experience goes beyond athletics, giving its members life skills that go beyond the field of play. The MBSA develops its members into winners in every area of life by fostering better communication, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence. In addition to sports, the MBSA has built a close-knit community that encourages togetherness, empathy, and understanding. Members find comfort in knowing they have a network of people who have had similar experiences and that they are not alone in their path.

The same team that won the Silver Medal last year won Bronze Medal this year World Championships in Glasgow. Tandem cycling, Malaysian Blind Sports

Advocacy and Awareness

The MBSA is not just about athletics; it also plays a significant role in promoting the rights and welfare of people who are blind or visually impaired. The organisation promotes a more inclusive society by bringing attention to the difficulties they experience and fighting for the modifications that are required. The MBSA actively promotes the rights and welfare of people who are blind or visually impaired, dispelling myths and fostering more inclusivity. The organization strives to transform people’s attitudes about visual impairments positively through campaigns, workshops, and community involvement.

Future

The significance of the Malaysian Blind Sports Association goes far beyond the realm of athletics. It is proof of the capacity of the human spirit and the strength of perseverance. As the association develops, it will definitely motivate numerous people to pursue their goals, dismantling obstacles and excelling along the way. The mission of the MBSA is represented by its members. Their inspirational tales of overcoming adversity and commitment to their chosen sports serve as role models for others, encouraging a spirit of resiliency and persistence.

The annual meeting was chaired by the World Blind Bowls President from South Africa, Mr. Graham Ward, 7th March 2023.

In support of Malaysian Blind Sports Association (MBSA), AsiaFitnessToday.com extends their request for donation to develop Blind Sports across the country and the region.

References:

  • *Abdullah, N. M., Ampofo-Boateng, K., & Zawi, M. K. (2008). Coaching athletes with disabilities: General principles for appropriate training methodology. ISN Bulletin, 1(2), 51-58.
  • ^Howe, P. D. (2008). From inside the newsroom: Paralympic media and the production of elite disability. International Review of the Sociology of Sports, 43(2), 135-150.

Text by Mohammad Hafizuddin Bin Mohammad Rosdi with photos provided by Major Krishnan Nambiar of the Malaysian Blind Sports Association (MBSA).

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Features Australia/NZ, Features Malaysia

AFT International Sports & Fitness Festival inspires sport inclusion for all

A Fitness Today creates impact in communities by making sports and fitness more accessible to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, newly arrived migrants and refugees, women and girls and people with a physical or mental disability.

Sydney, Australia, 25 August 2023 – Go International Group Dotcom, publisher of impact sports and fitness digital platform A Fitness Today (AFT), today announced the inaugural AFT International Sports Fitness Festival, nicknamed SpoFiFe, kicking off in three cities:

  •   Bukit Bintang – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on 24 September,
  •   Sydney Haymarket, NSW, Australia on 30 September,
  •   Port Macquarie, NSW, Australia from 4-5 November 2023.

The sporting extravaganza aims to bring together over 100 hours of Sports, Fitness and Wellness experiences under one virtual roof across the region, partnering with city councils, tourism bodies, business retailers including small business vendors and community sporting groups with a focus on promoting racial harmony and promoting inclusion in sports.

A unique feature of this festival is its Sport Inclusion programmes for persons with disabilities and youth with neuro diversity. The festival fosters Friendship, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion in Sport, Fitness and Wellness, while paying respects First Nations Aboriginal & Torres Straits Islander traditions.

Port Macquarie will be abuzz with activities this first weekend of November, including:

  •   A 7KM walkathon with a virtual reality twist
  •   A sports and fitness expo and a variety of activities
  •   A health and beauty fair
  •   Health talks and workshops led by experts in the field
  •   Experiential activities for all ages, including a youth festival
  •   A Eat for Good Secret Supper fundraiser featuring guest entertainers

The AFT International Sports & Fitness Festival presents an opportunity for all to get active, learn about healthy living, and have fun. We encourage everyone to participate in-person or virtually, as the events will be live-streamed from A Fitness Today’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@aft-tv/streams.

“We are excited to reveal the AFT International Sports Fitness Festival because the time is now for sports tourism events and we are so thankful to partners like Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, the City of Sydney and the Network of Bukit Bintang Communities of Kuala Lumpur,” said Sydney-based event organiser Jasmine Low and Malaysian counterpart Nikki Yeo, who is also a founding board member of Society of Exercise is Medicine Malaysia.

“SpoFiFe is a great opportunity for people from all walks of lives to come together and enjoy sporting activities in a non-competitive and safe environment, try different or new things, use technology like VR to experience Port Macquarie, sign-on as a volunteer and simply take the opportunity to be fit for good, chimed the duo, co-founders of A Fitness Today (AFT) both speaking from having lived experience as carer and fitness coach.

Watersport enthusiast and advocate for a water sports centre in Bank Street for paddlers and local residents to access Sydney Harbour, Raymond Tai, also Chairman of the Darling Square Community Bank Branch – Bendigo Bank, a venue partner of the Sydney edition added, “The event provides a welcoming space especially for new arrivals to Australia to meet people from all backgrounds. Australia’s diversity is like none other, and we can’t wait to host you in-person or virtually.

Sign up and take part in the VR walk and hunt during the City of Sydney’s closure of Haymarket to traffic on 30th September. Come outdoors and learn something new about Sydney’s Chinatown and the MidSummer Lantern Festival,”.

The festival’s ‘Fit for Good’ and ‘Eat for Good’ call benefits non-profit partners like:

  • All Together Now (ATN) promotes racial harmony and racial equity in Australia and will be incorporating educational tools on the inclusion of people of culturally and linguistically different backgrounds.
  • The Mental Wheels Foundation, through its The Situp Challenge (raisely.com) beginning on 1st of September, wants to improve the mental and physical state of a person and make a difference for those in need within the community. It’s time to sit up as the issue of suicide won’t lay down.
  • Malaysian Blind Sports Association (https://www.facebook.com/MalaysianBlindSports) rehabilitates the blind and sight-impaired through sports.

The festival is free of charge, but registration is essential. Visit www.sportsfitnessfestival.com to learn more.

AFTNews, Commonwealth Games, Features Australia/NZ

Trinbago 2023 begins with spectacular opening ceremony

The 7th Commonwealth Youth Games and the first in the Caribbean kicked off in a carnival style at the Hasely Crawford Stadium in Trinidad.

In a ceremony bursting with colour and energy, more than 1,000 athletes from around 70 Commonwealth Nations and Territories were welcomed to the first Youth Games since 2017.

Famous for their appearance at Carnival time, the Kiddies Carnival Kings and Queens performed alongside a youth steel pan side, while spectators enjoyed tassa and tamboo bamboo stands within the stadium.

Following the traditional parade of nations, there was a demonstration of the sports being played during the Games. Each sport was represented by an incredible Moko Jumbie, designed to not only glisten in the sunlight, but also show movement similar to the sport.

Dame Louise Martin, President of the Commonwealth Games told athletes in her opening address: “I truly hope you seize the moment and enjoy this Caribbean carnival of inspiring competition, personal development and global friendship.”

“You are diverse, unique and equal members of one big sporting family and especially in this Commonwealth Year of Youth – we will celebrate each and every one of you.”

Closing the festivities Trinidad and Tobago-born group, Freetown Collective performed the theme song ‘Stay Ready’ created especially for the Youth Games.

Diane Henderson, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Commonwealth Games Association (TTCGA), and the local Organising Committee, said: “What you saw today is a combined volunteer effort led by us here in Trinidad and Tobago and aided by persons from around the world.”

“I think as a nation, we can stand up and say proudly we are Trinbago 2023. Now, the work really begins as the real stars of the show take to the field over the next few days.”

From 4-11 August athletes will participate in Aquatics (Swimming), Athletics, Cycling (Road Race, Time Trial, and Track) and Triathlon, as well as Rugby Sevens and Beach Volleyball.

Netball’s shorter, faster format, FAST5, makes its debut at the Youth Games with eight women’s teams competing for a medal.

A fully integrated Para-Athletics programme will also make its first appearance at the Games with athletes competing in six medal events (three women’s and three men’s events).

The Youth Games are an established pathway towards the Commonwealth Games, and other major senior sporting events, providing an opportunity to showcase the stars of the future.

Buy tickets for Trinbago 2023 now.

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AFTNews, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Features Australia/NZ, Rhythm & Movement

Desert Song Festival

The countdown to opening night gains pace with the 10th Anniversary Premium Content Series launched on August 9, 2023.

Six programs of Desert Song Festival performances by a global family of exceptional artists will be featured in August, September, October and December 2023, and in February 2024, via a dedicated platform: https://www.desertsongdigital.com/#/home. 

THE FIRST PROGRAM, DISCOVERING DSF – August 2023, IS FREE! and will also be available on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/DesertSongFestival. Check it out and get in the mood for the 10th Anniversary festival. The other five are available at $20 for individual netcasts or $80 for the entire subscription. Details of broadcast dates will be published after Program #1 becomes available. 

AUGUST 2023: MAIN ATTRACTION SOWETO GOSPEL CHOIR
 
“A stunning performance that’s uplifting, energising, and life-affirming” – Scenestr
 
“Uplifting harmonies that fill your soul” – Play and Go Adelaide
 
This musical powerhouse has been spreading sheer joy to audiences across the globe for nearly two decades with their powerful blend of African Gospel, Freedom Songs, and international classics.
 

 
Since their first visit in 2011, Alice Springs has become one of their favourite destinations. They are returning – for their fifth visit for the 10th anniversary of the Desert Song Festival to present their brand-new concert HOPE at two sessions on Saturday 16th September at the Araluen Arts Centre @ 3pm and 7.30pm. In the past, these concerts have been fully sold out, so the organisers urge enthusiasts to book their tickets as soon as possible for one of the iconic entertainment events of the year Central Australia: https://www.desertsong.com.au/soweto-gospel-choir-3/
 
HOPE celebrates songs and anthems from the Freedom Movement of Nelson Mandela’s South Africa, and the Civil Rights Movement of Martin Luther King’s America. HOPE is a concert that will sing forever in your hearts! In these concerts, the Soweto Gospel will collaborate with the NIMA award-winning Central Australian Aboriginal Women’s Choir with whom they have developed a close relationship since first meeting these songwomen in 2011.
 
Book tickets to the Desert Song Festival here.

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AFTNews, Commonwealth Games, Features Australia/NZ

Lauren Bates of Australia wins first medal of Trinbago 2023 Commonwealth Youth Games

Via PRNews

The highly anticipated Commonwealth Youth Games kicked off with Lauren Bates of Australia winning the first gold medal of the Games in the Women’s Cycling – Time Trial. Hosted at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, the energy-sapping race saw Bates scorch around the 10km course in 14:09.31, with compatriot, Keira Will, taking silver and Ruby Oakes of Isle of Man the bronze medal. “It’s amazing. It’s insane. I’m so stoked to come away with a medal and seeing all the other nations here as well, it’s so cool. Learning all the cultures, it’s such a good experience,” said Bates.

Miles Bailey Liebenberg, from South Africa just pipped Scotland’s Elliot Rowe to the men’s title, winning by 3.39s in a time of 19:17.62 over the 15km course.

“I made sure to pace myself. It was really hot, so I kept myself and my core temperature cool and from then I didn’t know what to expect, just pace myself and I’m happy to take the win,” said Liebenberg.

Australia claimed another medal on a successful day for their team, with Will Heath picking up the bronze medal.

Young athletes from 68 Commonwealth Nations and Territories have gathered across the twin islands to showcase their talent and sportsmanship. A stepping stone for future sporting champions, the Youth Games provides a platform for talented youth athletes aged 14 to 18 to test their skills and abilities on an international stage.

This year’s edition promises to be one of the most exciting and memorable, in the Games’ history, with seven sports being contested – Aquatics (Swimming), Athletics and Para Athletics, Cycling (Road and Track), Triathlon, FAST5 Netball, Rugby Sevens, and Beach Volleyball.

Over in Tobago, the beautiful beach of Black Rock hosted the start of the Beach Volleyball competition where defending women’s champions Australia and men’s champions England kicked off their title defences.

Rwanda, who won their first-ever medal at a Games and Youth Games, when they secured bronze in the Women’s Beach Volleyball in 2017, were also in action on Day One.

CGF CEO, Katie Sadleir, commented: “After last night’s dazzling Opening Ceremony, it was fantastic to see the Sport Programme get underway today, with the Cycling Individual Time Trial and the beginning of the Beach Volleyball competition at the stunning Black Rock. We are immensely proud of all who took part today and especially Lauren Bates and Miles Bailey Liebenberg for winning the first gold medals of Trinbago 2023.” As the opening day concludes, the focus now shifts to Day Two, where the excitement continues with the start of the Swimming, Triathlon and Rugby Sevens, as well as the continuation of the Beach Volleyball.

For more information and updates visit: Trinbago2023.com and follow their social posts #trinbago2023

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World Record Most Number of People Doing Sit-Ups

Over two in five Australians aged 16-85 years (43.7% or 8.6 million people) have experienced a mental disorder at some time in their life, 21.4% of people have had a mental illness that has lasted 12 months. This number is increasing in the younger generation with 39.6% of Australians between the ages of 15-24 having a 12-month mental illness. This is truly unacceptable, and something has to be done about this yet only 1 in 10 young Aussies seek help.

The Mental Wheels Foundation has made it its mission to understand how to improve mental health through positive actions and research; The Foundation supports the community through the promotion of accessible clinical programs and Mental Wheel of Life Workshops. Partnering MQ Health in research projects and treatment through MindSpot (a free mental online health clinic).

To raise much needed funds, The Mental Wheels Foundation has launched the ‘Sit-Up Challenge’. To take part in the Challenge participants will be doing 66 sit-ups every day for 21 days, this not only helps to improve the participants mental health through physical exercise but will also raise money and awareness. The challenge will take place from September 1.

To rally people to take action, the challenge aims to break a world record! The most people doing sit-ups simultaneously, the current world record set on 17th of November 2016 sits at 2,005 people simultaneously doing sit-ups. The Mental Wheels Foundation plans to beat this – but we need your support in order to do so.

There will also be an in-person challenge held in Sydney, Brisbane and Port Macquarie on Saturday September 2.

For either option, please register here https://the-situp-challenge.raisely.com/

If you ever do find yourself suffering from mental illness and feel it is affecting, you in a negative way please reach out for support from someone you trust and if you don’t feel like there is someone you can trust, seek support through one of these helplines:

  • Lifeline: 13 11 14
  • Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636
  • Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800

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