KEY POINTS:
Christchurch has headed off Barcelona to win the rights to host the 2010 International Paralympic Comittee (IPC) world athletics championships.
The biggest event of its kind outside the Paralympic Games, the event is held every four years and involves more 1200 athletes.
It is estimated the championships will have an economic impact to New Zealand in excess of $72 million.
The two-week championships involves track and field events for athletes with disabilities such as spinal cord injury and cerebral palsy, as well as amputees and the visually impaired.
The event will be staged at QE11 Stadium and a second temporary training track will be required.
Chairman of Paralympics New Zealand Simon Peterson said the legacy of the event would have a significant impact on the participation of disabled people in sport and the future of Paralympic sports in New Zealand.
"The overwhelming local and central governmental support and joint commitment by all parties, including Athletics NZ, towards hosting the World Championships has been amazing," Peterson said.
"New Zealand Major Events, SPARC and Christchurch City Council have all given considerable support and financial investment to help secure the successful rights to host the event."
- NZPA
