Public invited to take part in world record attempt

Dunedin’s Connect Four World Record attempt, coming up on July 30 at the Edgar Centre, will aim...
Dunedin’s Connect Four World Record attempt, coming up on July 30 at the Edgar Centre, will aim to beat the previous record, set at Shotover Primary School in Queenstown in 2021 (pictured). PHOTO: SUPPLIED
The call has gone out for Dunedin fans of popular board game Connect Four to turn out in big numbers for a world record attempt next weekend.

A joint initiative by Central Otago firm Luv Immigration and Dunedin’s Edgar Centre, the Connect Four tournament record attempt will be held on Sunday, July 30, from 10am to 1pm at the Edgar Centre.

Edgar Centre receptionist Jo-Anne McHoull is hoping for more than 400 people to take part in the tournament, to beat the previous record of 316 players, set at Shotover Primary School, in Queenstown, in November 2021.

To get people in the swing of it, a practice session will be held this Sunday, from 10am to 2pm, at the Edgar Centre.

The Dunedin Connect Four Tournament, dubbed the Chai Initiative 2023 National Connect Four Tournament, is the brainchild of Luv Immigration owners Zee and Kay Luv, who were also behind the Queenstown event.

Created in honour of Mrs Luv’s late father, Chai, who suffered from depression, the tournaments are fun family events that also aim to raise awareness and funds for the not-for-profit Chai Initiative Project, which works to support people and families dealing with mental health issues.

Ms McHoull said the game Connect Four was being used because it was simple and easy to understand, fun to play and also complex enough to keep everyone entertained.

"All ages are welcome to take part. No Connect Four experience is necessary — we just want as many people as possible to come along," she said.

People interested in taking part are invited to pre-register so that numbers can be calculated, although people are also welcome to turn up on the day. Entry is $15 with all proceeds going to the Chai Initiative Project.

To sign up email reception@edgarcentre.co.nz or phone 456-1200.

brenda.harwood@thestar.co.nz