People with disabilities go for gold on 16th September 2011

Thursday, September 15, 2011

Sydney will host Randstad's 8th Reach for the Stars Disability Athletics Carnival at Blacktown International Sportspark on Friday 16th September 2011, giving competitors the opportunity to go for gold.

For the 500 athletes competing at the Carnival, crossing the finish line will reflect the culmination of a long and rewarding journey which not only reveals the resilience of the human spirit, but acts as inspiration for the entire community.

"Everyone competing at the carnival has a unique and inspirational story to tell, and for many, participating in this event is an achievement in itself," says Tracey Cumbers, National Manager of recruitment & HR services specialist, Randstad, the principal sponsor of the carnival.

This year's event promises to be more enjoyable for the athletes than ever before, as Blacktown International Sportspark transforms itself into a festival of music, dancers, carnival games and more.

"Randstad's Reach for the Stars Disability Athletics Carnival provides people with physical and intellectual disabilities with the opportunity to compete in a variety of sporting events and games whilst strengthening their self esteem and improving their personal relationships. It also provides friends, family, carers and Randstad employees with a greater understanding and appreciation of the challenges, struggles and triumphs of people with disabilities," says Cumbers.

Randstad's Reach for the Stars Disability Athletics Carnival is one of the biggest athletics carnivals held each year in Sydney, Newcastle and Brisbane.

"There has been such a fantastic response by the disability and care communities in each region, and we are certain this will be another successful and memorable event for everyone involved," says Cumbers.

Competitors with physical and intellectual disabilities will be participating from disability services in the region, including Flintwood Disability Services, Sunnyfield, Cerebral Palsy Alliance, House With No Steps, Achieve Australia, Peckys, See Foundation, Studio Artes and Leura Day Options. Over 700 people are expected to attend, 200 of those being volunteers and carers.

Some of the athletic challenges that will take place on the day include a 100m manual wheelchair race; 100m electric wheelchair race; women's 100m sprint (ambulant); men's 100m sprint (ambulant); long jump; throwing events, plus many more. Every athlete is encouraged to join in and have a go.

Randstad's Health & Community Care division is Australia's largest specialist recruitment business servicing the disability, in-home, welfare, care and community support sectors.

Randstad matches people with employers that will develop their potential and employers with people that will take their business to the next level. In short, Randstad plays a pivotal role in shaping the world of work.

Event details



Date:
Friday, 16th September 2011
Time:
9.30am - 2.00pm
9.30am - 10.00am - Teams march into arena
10.00am - 1.00pm - Athletics & carnival events
12.00pm - 1.00pm - Medal presentations
1.00pm - 2.00pm - Relay events
2.00pm carnival close


Venue:
Blacktown International Sportspark
Eastern Road, Rooty Hill, NSW


Media Contact :
Ros Pullen - Media & Marketing Officer - Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney - 9839 6595
Karla Wyatt - Promotions Assistant - Blacktown International Sportspark Sydney - 9839 6593