Ref: tn_7508
Date: 6th August 2008

ON YOUR MARKS, GET SET, GO – Wigan and Leigh’s mini Olympics

WIGAN and Leigh youngsters will be going for gold with the borough’s own mini Olympics on Friday.

A special competition to mark the start of the Beijing 2008 Olympic games will be held at both Robin Park Arena and Leigh Sports Village in a bid to get more children interested in sports as Britain’s top track and field stars aim for the ultimate sporting accolade in China.

The day of athletics and sporting competitions will see 8 to 14-year-olds from summer sports camps across the borough compete.
Three camps will compete at Robin Park Arena and another three at Leigh Sports Village – both potential 2012 Olympic training sites.

Organiser Craig Anthony, events delivery officer for Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust’s Sports Development Unit said: “The Olympics will be on everyone’s lips for the next two weeks and to celebrate we’re holding our own mini version right here in the borough.”

The project is part of Wigan Sports Development’s ‘Get Active this Summer 2008’ programme which will see 21, week long, sports camps run throughout the summer holidays at venues across Wigan and Leigh coaching hundreds of youngsters.

The special competition is being held to mark the start of the games with another planned to mark the end of the games on 22 August.
It’s hoped youngsters will then sign up with local clubs to enjoy a healthier future.

Craig added: “Our aim is to provide a range of physical activities throughout the summer.
“Hopefully, the mini Olympics will inspire young people to join clubs and live active, healthier lives.”

To find your closest summer camp contact Wigan Sports Development on 01942 404 982.

-ends-

NOTES TO EDITORS: For further information on this press release please contact David Taylor, Communications Manager, on 01942 486 937 or at david.taylor@wlct.org

Picture Opportunity: Photographers and journalists are invited to the mini Olympics between 1.30pm and 2.30pm on Friday 8 August at either Robin Park Arena or Leigh Sports Village.

Call David Taylor on 01942 486 937 if you wish to attend either venue.

Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust: Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust is a charitable trust working on behalf of Wigan Council to manage and support leisure and cultural facilities, initiatives and events for over 300,000 residents in the Wigan Borough.

Getting Wigan Active: Getting Wigan Active is Wigan Leisure and Culture Trust’s vision to help people across the Wigan Borough to become more physically, mentally and creatively active. It also aims to increase community activity and to encourage good citizenship.

 

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