Pan Pacific Masters Games 2024 has come to an end, mayor wins big

The 2024 Pan Pacific Masters Games is done for 2024 but not before Mayor Tom Tate won big. Here’s what he won

People say a lot of things about Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate - but he’s not lightweight.

The 2024 Pan Pacific Masters Games is officially over but not before Gold Coast’s very own Mayor Tom Tate managed to snag a gold medal - in the powerlifting.

Competing in the Powerlifting Bench Press and Dead Lift categories Mayor Tate won his age group - over 65s - in powerlifting and had the biggest lift of the day at 140 kgs.

Mayor Tom Tate competes in the Pan Pacific Masters Games. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“I’ve been training every couple of days for some time now to be ready, we adjust the training schedule depending on how recovery is going,” Mayor Tate said.

“It is fantastic to be able to compete in the Pan Pacific Masters here on the Gold Coast.

“It’s a great event for our city, and as you get older it’s important to remain active and healthy and set personal goals. There is nothing more important than your health.

“I’m pleased with the result, and I achieved my target weight so you’ve got to be happy with that.”

Mayor Tom Tate in the 65-plus category powerlifting at the Pan Pac Masters Games. Picture: Glenn Campbell

More than 15,000 participants flooded the city during the last two weeks to compete in the games with 20,200 medals handed out.

All up 7400 golds, 6700 silvers and 6100 bronzes were awarded.

An Events Management spokeswoman said the event attracted athletes from all over the world.

“We had swimmers from Mongolia, we had dragon boaters and indoor rowers from Singapore, big teams, really big teams,” she said.

“India, the USA, Canada, England, Sri Lanka, big contingents of teams and individual participants. Papua New Guinea - just incredible representation from overseas.”

Mayor Tom Tate: “I’ve been training every couple of days for some time now to be ready.” Picture: Glenn Campbell

The spokeswoman also announced the Pan Pacific Masters Games return to the Gold Coast in 2026 in November.

“We’re already looking forward to it. We’re already sad that it’s over, and the team at Events Management Queensland are already looking forward to it coming back in 2026,” she said.

“The Masters Games are not just for oldies, it’s actually a great sport for everyone, and a wonderful pathway to continue in a sport that you love.

“When you’ve sort of gone from that elite level or really strong participation level, Masters gives you a pathway to continue,” she said.

Mayor Tom Tate checks out the competition in the 65-plus category of the powerlifting at the Pan Pacific Masters Games. Picture: Glenn Campbell