One of the most eagerly watched events in the sports calendar in 2011 is the Winter Games held in New Zealand. First held in 2009, it has grown to be one of the most unique events in the world of winter sports. This year, it boasts an impressive 16 days of every possible competition, ranging from snowboarding to ice skating, ice curling to even a winter triathlon. This year, it will feature 38 events, 22 sports, 1000 athletes, and over 30 nations. For many, this is the starting point on their journey to the Winter Olympics held in 2014. The Winter Games will be held from the 13th to the 28th of August 2011.
The Winter Games is also one of its kind because it combines adaptive and able-bodied athletes to participate. Its significance was further enhanced by the number of sportspeople who took part and won medals at the Winter Olympics and Special Olympics in Vancouver, Canada.
Based on its success in its previous years, it will be introducing two new sports – the Super G and the Adaptive Super G alpine skiing events at Mt. Hutt near Christchurch, Caterbury. Speed skating will also be introduced in the ice programme along with an ice hockey tournament, featuring four international teams in a round-robin game. The curling programme will be featuring mixed pairs, offering a challenge for both genders.
Coronet Peak, where most of the competitions are held is a popular ski resort, not only because of its fantastic vistas. It also provides a perfect terrain for skiing, whether you are a beginner or a professional. Recently, the beginner slopes were equipped with special twin high speed conveyer lifts, making learning more fun and easier for novices. It also boasts of a long snow season, as it is one of the last ski fields to lose its snow, usually lasting from early June to late October. Night skiing is another activity offered over the weekends.
For those not competing but who are interested in doing winter sports, the Cardrona Alpine Resort near Lake Wanaka is hosting a free cross and ski cross racing and snowboarding. They will take place at Snow Park.
The Winter Games is not just limited to the sports-inclined. The Games include an Adventure Film Festival, live music and entertainment, along with an Adventure Expo. There will also be a big Air and Rail Jam Extravaganza in the cities of Queenstown, Lake Wanaka, Dunedin and Methven.
Accommodation can be found in the city of Queenstown, situated only 25 minutes from Coronet Peak, where the games are held. If you are looking for Queenstown hotel, look no further than the Millennium Hotel Queenstown. It is conveniently situated only minutes from the central shopping, entertainment districts and other outdoor activities which New Zealand is famous for. It is one of the luxury hotels in Queenstown, rated four plus stars and environmentally friendly.