44 days and paddling until the 2026 Pan Pacific Masters Games
In just 44 days more than 16,000 athletes including more than 1200 dragon boat participants will descend on the Gold Coast to compete in the biggest multisport competition in the southern hemisphere.
The 14th edition of the biennial Pan Pacific Masters Games (PPMG) with 41 sports on offer will be contested over 10 days of competition at venues across the city from 6-15 November 2026.
PPMG perennial favourite callisthenics sold out in record time attracting more than 850 participants, while dragon boat paddling has drawn its biggest field yet, with softball stepping very close to the plate to break entry records.
An event renowned for its friendly but fierce competition PPMG attracts athletes from every state and territory in Australia and all over the world with multiple teams and individuals from New Zealand, America, India, Papua New Guinea, Mongolia and the UK already registered.
Events Management Queensland (EMQ) CEO Ben Mannion said entries had well surpassed where they were at this time in 2024 suggesting greater awareness around healthy and active living for all ages and the valuable social aspect of playing sport at any age.
“The great thing about PPMG is that it’s not sport for seniors… that’s just a myth.
“The age of a ‘master’ in sport is imposed by the sport with athletes as young as 18 – 19 years able to compete in multiple sports including swimming and diving.
“Master’s level sporting competition allows dedicated individuals who want to continue to train and try new sports, compete in a professional environment beyond elite competition and importantly enjoy the company of likeminded sports loving people.
“One thing we love every PPMG is seeing the teams and individuals who come year after year reunite at the event and then compete in some of the best venues in Australia including many that were purpose built for the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.
And the social aspect of master’s sport is important with Pan Pacs Central always popular and a great place for everyone to connect and enjoy great entertainment after a hard day’s competition.
“At this point we have more than 1700 international participants who are expected to stay an average of 4.3 nights with more than 7,000 heading to the Gold Coast from interstate who will stay in the city for an average of 3. 5 nights.
Mr Mannion said participants can expect the same world class sporting and entertainment experience this year with a few new additions including an exclusive digital accreditation app that provides up to date games information and entry to Pan Pacs Central.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell MP said the Crisafulli Government was delivering on its commitment to attract more major events to Queensland and drive visitation to key tourism destinations.
“We said we would secure more events for Queensland, and that’s exactly what we’re doing,” Minister Powell said.
“Supported through Tourism and Events Queensland’s Major Events Program, the Pan Pacific Masters Games will bring thousands of athletes and supporters to the Gold Coast, boosting visitation and local businesses.
“Events like this strengthen the Gold Coast’s reputation as a leading events destination and help drive jobs and economic benefits across the region.”
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate said the magic is in the numbers with the 2026 Pan Pacs already setting records for attendance across a range of sports.
“The beauty of this event is that it combines competition with camaraderie … helping visitors, competitors and supporters forge friendships which extend well beyond the sporting arena.
“The Pan Pacs showcases our world-class sports facilities, universities and natural attractions to the world, while rolling out the welcome mat over 10 magical days.
“I’ve been consistent in training for the powerlifting competition which was a highlight of my year in 2024. People keep telling me that age is only a number and I hope they’re right.
“As Mayor, I look forward to welcoming the world to our city in 44 days.’’
The Pan Pacific Masters Games will officially kick off from 6-15 November with opening night celebrated on Saturday 7 November at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The Pan Pacific Masters Games are organised by Events Management Queensland and are proudly supported by Experience Gold Coast and the Queensland Government, through Tourism and Events Queensland as well as Health and Wellbeing Queensland.
