What should we call the Nude Olympics now?

Willunga couple Keith and Kate Goslin at Maslin Beach. Picture: Tait Schmaal Source: adelaidenow

• TELL US BELOW: What's your suggestion for a new name for the Nude Olympics?

ORGANISERS of the Maslin Beach Nude Olympics are calling for suggestions for a new title after the name was banned by the Australian Olympic Committee.

The Australian Olympic Committee sent a letter to organisers of the January event prohibiting them from using "Olympics" in the title.

Event organiser Debbie Pillar said the group was now calling for people to provide suggestions for a new name.

"We're trying to come up with an idea now so that we can start advertising for next year's event,'' Ms Pillar said.

"We would like to get some suggestions from people for a replacement name.''

Willunga resident Keith Goslin said the ban was "over the top''.

"That's absolute rubbish,'' Mr Goslin said.

"Using that word doesn't mean anything ... it's just a bit of fun.''

The Maslin Beach Nude Olympics has used the name since it started in 1983. The event was cancelled for five years after 2007 because of a lack of sponsorship before being reintroduced this year.

Ms Pillar said the ban was a "massive overreaction".

"They need to get a life if they think we're a threat to them," Ms Pillar said.

"We don't make money out of their name and we haven't got enough money to fight them over it."

An AOC spokesman said it had sent a "polite letter" to the event organisers warning them to change the name.

"The word Olympic and the Olympic symbols are covered by the Olympic Insignia Protection Act ... they are protected," he said.

"We are protecting our property just like the AFL, NRL or any other group.

"We have not singled these people out ... they are breaking the law."

The January 20 event involved races and competitions, including sack-racing, donut eating, treasure hunts and the Best Bum award.

Police have told organisers to ensure all children were wearing bottoms while taking part in any competition, to deter paedophiles.

Olympic officials are uncompromising in protecting the event's name and symbol.

A cafe manager in south London was banned from displaying bagels in the shape of the Olympic rings last year.

Nudist Sharon Rich, who competed this year, said it was "single-minded".

"It's likely to be just an anti-nudist using it as a gripe," she said.

For more news on the south, pick up a copy of the Southern Times Messenger, read our digital edition online, or become a fan of our Facebook page.

View the original article here