City training ground for Olympians

International cyclists are among the athletes using Christchurch as a training base for the Sydney Olympic Games.

Triathletes, kayakers and gymnasts are among the top international athletes coming to Christchurch to train for this year's Olympic Games and Paralympics in Sydney.

They are attracted to the terrain, accessibility of rivers and sea, facilities and support services, says Kate Colebourne, a member of the Council's sports promotions team.

They come with their coaches and train full- time for up to three months.

Among the world's best local people might see are Australian, British and European triathletes; European flat water and whitewater kayakers; Canadian gymnasts; Japanese paraplegic athletes; U.S. and Central American volleyball players.

The Council' 's sports promotions team has worked hard to attract athletes to Christchurch by attending Olympic meetings in Sydney and distributing information to international sports organisations. Every country participating in the Olympics and Paralympics has been contacted and information is on the Council's website.

As a result there have also been general inquiries about Christchurch and Canterbury from people wanting to visit the region before or after the games in September and October.

And Kate says doors have opened for events to be held here, such as the World Wheelchair Games late last year.

• On page 4 read about the Children's Millennium Games in Christchurch.