NSW ATHLETES GOING FOR GOLD

118 NSW athletes have been chosen to represent Australia at the 2018 Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast.

NSW Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres today announced the NSW contingent, with 90 of those competing supported by the NSW Institute of Sport (NSWIS).

“The number of athletes from NSW not only demonstrates the talent we have in our state but also the world-class facilities and support that we offer to enable them to compete against the world’s best,” Mr Ayres said.

“It is exciting that almost half of the NSW athletes will be making their Commonwealth Games debut, with nine of those representing their country in international competition for the first time.

“On behalf of everyone in NSW I wish our athletes the best of luck.

“Whether you are a sports fan or not this is a fantastic opportunity to show your support, a time to get the family together to cheer them on at home or you could be lucky enough to be a part of the phenomenal atmosphere on the Gold Coast.”

400-metre medal hopeful Anneliese Rubie said: “It is a great honour to be selected along with so many athletes from NSW. We’ve been working hard, along with our coaches and support staff at NSWIS to be ready for the Games – I can’t wait to get started!”

Wheelchair marathon para-athlete Madison de Rozario said: “I am so excited to get the chance to represent Australia in front of a home crowd.”

The NSWIS contingent of Team Australia includes twenty athletes from athletics, ten swimmers, nine hockey players and eight shooters. The team also includes medal hopes from diving, cycling and triathlon.

The 2018 Commonwealth Games begins on Wednesday, 4 April and runs through to Sunday, 15 April.