In October, the 14th Commonwealth Games will be held in Delhi, India. This event is similar to the Olympic Games and the Asian Games but smaller, as it is only for teams from the Commonwealth of Nations countries (originally the British Empire). It is held every four years.

The first Commonwealth Games, then called the British Empire Games, was held in Canada in 1930. Although in those days women were allowed to participate only in the swimming events, now all events are open to both men and women. New Zealand has hosted three Commonwealth Games, the last in Auckland in 1990, but Australia usually wins the most medals.

Many people are worried about the possibility of a terrorist attack at the Delhi games, so the Indian government is going to provide 10,000 police and security staff to protect the athletes and the public at that time. However the New Zealand team officials are still waiting to decide whether it is safe enough for the team to take part. New Zealand has a good chance of winning medals in many events, including athletics, netball, rugby and shooting, so the athletes will be very disappointed if they cannot compete this year.

Contributed by Chris Mahoney

Listen also to Sports teams going to India.

For background to the Commonwealth, listen to Commonwealth Heads of Government Meet

Questions for Discussion

1. What are the benefits for small countries like New Zealand of sending teams to the Commonwealth Games? Are there any disadvantages?

2. Do you think that governments should spend money on supporting our best athletes and sports people to become excellent so they can compete in international events like Commonwealth and Olympic Games? Why/why not?

3. Some people believe the Indian government should spend its money on food and improving living conditions for Indian people rather than on building lots of new stadiums and other buildings for the Games this year. What do you think?