As sporting fever hits the nation, Portsmouth is also experiencing the excitement! Over a thousand people from all over the world have already taken part in the Spinnaker Tower's spectacular month-long all-weather summer event - the 'Mario and Sonic at the Olympic Games' tournament, and beaten some of the official Wii Olympic records!
 
Using Nintendo Wii gaming pods on View Deck 1 of the iconic Spinnaker Tower, both novices and experts have taken part, with over 23 nationalities represented, including the USA, Germany, India, Switzerland, the Philippines, Australia, Italy, Kuwait, Sweden, Turkey, Poland and Canada.
 
Some visitors to the landmark attraction have queued time and again, escaping the characteristically adverse British summer weather, in order to enjoy several goes whilst trying to beat their own record. There have been even bigger records set during the first two weeks of the tournament however, when a few visitors beat the Wii Olympic records in hammer (visitor: 86.385; Wii Olympic Record: 84.80), triple-jump (visitor: 18.279; Wii Olympic Record: 18.09) and 100m freestyle swimming (visitor: 46.734; Wii Olympic Record: 46.367)!

Fay Burgin, Consumer PR Manager, from SEGA who, in partnership with Nintendo for the first time, published the popular Olympic video game, commented: "'Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games' is ideal to play at the top of the fantastic Spinnaker Tower for those wanting to get out of the rain and into the spirit of the Olympics. The game captures all the spirit of the Olympics - it's fun, challenging and nothing beats the feeling of winning a gold medal! With the times and distances being achieved at the Spinnaker Tower however, maybe it's the amazing backdrop that inspires such a performance! Well done to those who are up there on the leader board who obviously have a great skill within their particular sport!
 
There's still a chance to try your hand at the Wii challenge as the event is still on for another two weeks. And while the event is on, a visit to the attraction's website (www.spinnakertower.co.uk ) will provide you with a voucher for up to half price off admission for a family of four - entry for just £12.50 instead of £25.00!*** The Spinnaker Tower's 'Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games' tournament concludes on 27 August with a grand finale in true style, using blocks, medals and the national anthem to boot! The eventual winner receives an amazing prize - tickets for up to 4 people to a sporting event of your choice* sponsored by Original 106 FM. To be in with a chance of winning, visit the Spinnaker Tower before 27 August and sign up for the most exciting tournament this summer!**
 
*Sports event must be held in the UK. Maximum prize value £500. Winners are responsible for organising and paying for their own transport to the event. Prize must be taken by 31 July 2009.
 
**Visitors may play on the Nintendo Wii pods without taking part in the tournament. Those who wish to take part in the tournament must be available to take part in the finals on 27 August 2008. Players may try their hand at as many sports as they wish but can only win one category of sport.
 
***Valid until 31 August 2008. No cash alternative. Valid for up to 4 people. Maximum of two adults. Cash redemption value of 0.0001p. Present it to the admissions desk at the Spinnaker Tower to get your reduced entry for just £12.50!
 
The Spinnaker Tower is open daily from 10am (excluding Christmas Day). See www.spinnakertower.co.uk or call 02392 857520 to book in advance or to find out more!