Registrations for World Youth Day Sydney 2008 (WYD08) have been rolling in, with just under 200,000 in the system, organisers said today.
“Our estimations for the event have always been based on 125,000 international and 100,000 domestic registered pilgrims,” said WYD08 Chief Operating Officer Danny Casey.
“The internationals have registered early to ensure they’re well-prepared for their journey to Sydney.
“We always knew that the Aussies would come in late, but we are seeing growth in this segment as well.
“It’s great to see so many locals excited about this event.”
Mr Casey said he was surprised to read comments attributed to NSW Government WYD08 spokeswoman Kristina Keneally that only 130,000 people had registered for the event.
“Minister Keneally could only have been referring to those who have finalised their registration.
“By midday today, 132,671 individuals have completed their registrations by providing WYD08 organisers with all of their individual details.
“In addition, a further 64,181 have made a commitment and are partly through their registration.
“This indicates that almost 197,000 people have registered to date.”
Mr Casey said that with three weeks to go, the WYD08 estimate of around 225,000 registrations is expected to be met or exceeded.
“With almost 40 extra flights coming into Sydney airport just for the event, there is no doubt this city will be awash with hundreds of thousands of joyous young people – and let’s not forget one very important Head of State!”
Registration figures do not include members of the public who wish to attend some of the major events. At the Final Mass, over 500,000 people are expected fill Randwick Racecourse and Centennial Park.
Sydney will host the XXIII World Youth Day from 15 to 20 July. A Catholic event, open to all, the event will also mark the first visit to Australia of His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI.
