World’s richest mile race hanging in the balance as athletes arrive

THIS year’s Mitchell St Mile is still hanging in the balance as no decisions have been made on the event’s future. As Arafura Games assistant minister Kate Worden welcomed athletes to Darwin she said holding it while the games was on was being considered.

Milula the Wallaby and Arafura Games mascot welcomed Volleyroos players Reilly Keogh, Reuben Gale, Ari Klein and Chaz Pucko to Darwin for the Arafura Games. Picture: KERI MEGELUS

THIS year’s Mitchell St Mile is still hanging in the balance as no decisions have been made on the event’s future.

Arafura Games assistant minister Kate Worden said prospects the race would be merged into the Arafura Games were being considered.

“There has been no firm decisions about it,” she said.

“My view is it needs to be every year because its already on the sporting calendar.”

MITCHELL St Mile could go biennial under cost saving plan

Yesterday Ms Warden and Milula the Wallaby welcomed the Australia men’s volleyball team and members of the Australian Para Athletics team to Darwin.

Ms Worden looked forward to the business possibilities.

“With the arrival of the athletes, coaches and supporters over the coming days, we will see a welcome increase in activity in our retail hospitality sectors but most importantly at our excellent sporting venues,” she said.

IN OTHER NEWS

Ms Warden was excited about the opportunities the Games afforded athletes.

“I am proud the Arafura Games is an inclusive multi-sport event which provides an important step in career development of all athletes, particularly those hoping to compete on the world stage at the next Olympics,” she said.