Denmark's Crown Prince Frederik Our Mary's husband is a definite for the sailing competition. The oldest entrant to date is Ruth Frith from Brisbane, who turns 100 next month. She'll be competing in five events in athletics, including shotput and discus.

But it's not just the older folk having a go. People only have to meet their sport's minimum age, which ranges from 25 to 35 years. At the last World Masters in 2006, 65percent of people were aged in the 41-to-60-year category.

The games are open to everyone, not just elite athletes, putting the emphasis on participation. People with disabilities are also encouraged to take part in the general competition.

An estimated 25,000 people from 100 countries are expected to compete in 28 sports at the World Masters Games in Sydney more than double the usual number of competitors in an Olympic Games. More than 70 venues will be used from Wollongong to Lithgow to Mona Vale as well as Sydney Olympic Park.

For more, pick up a copy of today's Canberra Times