FOR many, Tamworth means country music.
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To others, it's all about horses.
But something else is vying for the title.
Sport.
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"I would love us to be known as the sporting capital of rural NSW," Tamworth councillor Mark Rodda said.
Following a weekend where more than 2500 kids kitted-up for the biggest ever iteration of the National Primary Games, Tamworth's claim as a sporting capital has never been stronger.
This was on top of the York Cup and Kim Small Shield Hockey competition.
Cr Rodda, who chairs the council's sports committee, said the weekend came at a great time for the city as the drought continues to be felt on the local economy.
The event has been an unyielding boon for the city since its inception now worth an estimated $2.3 million to the economy.
With vision of the council, state government and the North Inland Academy of Sport (NIAS), it is only set to grow.
The council has bought land on Bridge Street to develop into more playing fields, while the sporting centre of excellence continues to progress.
"I was at the opening ceremony of the national primary games and there were thousands there," Cr Rodda said.
"That wouldn't reflect all of the teams and participants
"It's a credit the council and NIAS and the sponsors have been able to grow it."
NIAS chief executive officer James Cooper said a big part of the event's success was the word of mouth advertising from its participants and the amount of people who said they'd be back next year.
While this year saw the biggest numbers in terms of participation, none of the sports are at capacity and the room for growth is widening.
He said the city was blessed with great facilities and the support of the council would help through the next period of consolidation and expansion.
"We're very aware of what it brings to Tamworth," Mr Cooper said.
"And it's unique because NIAS is based in the region, so it can stay here long term and have an impact for many years.