20 November 2008

Glasgow’s athletics fans can now look forward to getting their first taste of world-class competition in 2009 at the Aviva International Match at the Kelvin Hall on January 31.

The country versus country format guarantees an exciting event to entertain the crowd at the Kelvin Hall. Last year’s sell out event saw an exciting win for the Great Britain & Northern Ireland team which will again be pushed hard in its bid to retain the title.

The format sees elite athletes – more accustomed to competing for individual glory – having to earn points for their country. It’s a situation the athletes thrive on – so expect some world class performances. Countries competing are: Great Britain & Northern Ireland, USA, Sweden, Germany & a Commonwealth select team.

Great Britain & Northern Ireland team will hope to be in good form following some great individual performances recently in the Bird’s Nest Stadium in Beijing as well earlier this year winning the SPAR European Cup in Annency, France.

Recognised as the richest indoor international match in the world it returns to its established home in Glasgow for the curtain raiser to the 2009 athletics season, the first season of the London 2012 Olympiad.

Chief Executive of UKA, Niels de Vos commented:  “I must admit I’m hugely excited about the start of the 2009 season. There’s a real sense that this is the start of a great few years for the sport as we build towards the 2012 Olympic Games in London and the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow. Given this period ends in Glasgow, it’s fitting in a way that it will be starting there, and hopefully the Scottish public will get behind this event as they always do and ensure a capacity crowd at the Kelvin Hall.”