What?
What is World Masters Athletics Championships? (#WMAC2026)
It's the biennial coming together of international athletes aged 35 and over competing in Track, Field, Cross Country and Road Running/Walking. Over 35s running, jumping, throwing, and applying a tonne of deep heat whilst having the most amazing time, lots of laughter, fun, new friends, adventures and although competing against others, competing against their own personal bests.
Who?
For Daegu they are expecting close to 11,000 athletes, officials and volunteers (and photographers to capture the memories as they're made!). I also read approximately 94 countries are represented. Registrations close on June 23rd. For Australians it's almost cheaper to fly to Daegu than attend some of our National Championships! Plus there's little ol me and Michael Thomas capturing your memories on 'film' as you make them. Something special about representing your country and wearing the Green and Gold Aussie uniform. Reminds me to chase up my long sleeve Aussie shirt I bought #represent.
When?
August 22nd 2026 to September 3rd. However, I'm heading over the first week of August to explore, travel, hike, soak up the South Korean experience. I'll be there for 40 days. Something in that I think! Can't wait. It will be HOT, HUMID and possibly wet, so come prepared with rain gear, light clothing, and intention of being indoors or in the airconditioning during the 11am to 3pm hottest parts of the day. There are two 'non-competition' days during the program to give everyone some respite - or attend the general assembly etc. I think I'm going to get my colour chart done on one of those days!!!
Where?
WMAC2026 takes place in Daegu, South Korea. Did you know South Korea is allegedly one of the safest countries in the world to travel, especially for women. Maybe it's because they know how the north live and behave themselves? Maybe it's the culture? Either way, still be vigilant, aware and safe. Many will fly into Seoul and catch one of the two fast trains (depending on accommodation destination) to Daegu as discussed in the last blog, others are flying direct.
I'll be flying into Seoul, and having a week there first.
Why?
Because we can! Having been a single mum for almost two decades I now have the opportunity to travel for 40 days (12 of which are in Daegu for the WMAC2026). First week will be in seoul.
How will I spend those 40 days? aka Free things to do in Seoul for a week:
I know some of us are on budgets and so I'm going to list down some of the FREE THINGS o do in Seoul this week and will do Daegu's Free things to do in two weeks time.
First week:
- Namsan Park which has views of the city and amazing sunset views (if you know me, you know I LOVE a good sunset). Namsan Tower is there you can visit for around $25AUD and has 360 degree city views, the romantics can place a padlock atop too! I'll stick to the Park.
- Han River - Banpo Hangang Park for it's bridge display (discussed in last week's blog) and it's amazing sunsets.
- Cheonggyecheon Stream - this looks like it will be amazing at night when it's cooler, and with the city lights reflecting through it. It runs for 11km through the city.
- National Museum of Korea - I do love a bit of history. Most of the exhibits have both Korean and English signs and information. There's also FREE English tours at 10:30am and 2:30pm each day.
- Seoul Forest Park - it even has deers! There are various statues, lots of different gardens, it's on the river so gorgeous views, and for me, lots of photo ops with the bridges, fountain etc.
- Jogyesa Buddhist Temple - in the heart of Seoul. Apparently there are thousands of bright lanterns inside. At the entrance there is a large ceremonial drum where visitors can make a wish and strike it three times as a way to announce their arrival. Although it's open 24/7, the main halls close at 9pm.
- Starfield Library in Coex Mall - for me it's about the photo opp for this one. Closes at 10pm. Looks amazing. They regularly have free lectures, concerts and displays. The surrounding mall is filled with cafes, restaurants and shops for those who like such things. I'm not a shopper, but I do love a good feed.
- Bukchon Hannok Village - "Located between Gyeongbokgung Palace, Changdeokgung Palace, and Jongmyo Shrine, Bukchon is a representative traditional residential area in Seoul densely populated with traditional Hanoks. It is also known as a "street museum within the city" due to the abundance of historical sites, cultural assets, and folklore materials." Thanks Google.
9. Eungbongsan Mountain - Great for sunsets. Arrive an hour before sunset to get views of the city then
apparently watching the city turn its lights on is extra special. Looking forward to this, and will tell you how
many steps to the peak!
10. Gyeongbokgung Palace - the photo opps from outside are amazing, and free to wander! Open
9am to 6pm in Aug/Sep. To view inside it's free if you are 65+ or under 18 or wearing traditional Hanbok -
otherwise it's very cheap at approx $4.50AUD.
If we haven't talked you into registering for World Masters Athletics Championships 2026 you still have until June 23rd to do so.
Have you seen/heard the Daegu 2026 podcast yet? Check it out at: https://www.instagram.com/p/DZZ_jIzskpv/ (or search @jbseemann)
What else would you like me to cover in my blogs?
Next week guest blogger, the amazing Nicolai Morris of Masters Pole Vault fame, and Coaching and Officiating Project Coordinator within the Growth and Development department of Australian Athletics. Amongst many other things. Nic will bring a host of practical tips for those new to travelling, or new to visiting Asian countries.
If you'd like to be advised when the blog comes out each week, use the form below.
Cheers,
Jo
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