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October 12, 2012Gateway to the Games stokes Commonwealth Games fever in Renfrewshire
Hundreds of Renfrewshire children are being given the chance to take part in a week long programme of free activities designed to raise awareness about the countries taking part in the Commonwealth Games and the events in which they’ll be competing.
The Renfrewshire Gateway to the Games Sports programme runs from 15-19 October 2012 and has been organised by Renfrewshire Council. Games for Scotland 2012 and EventScotland have made the sports week possible thanks to £8,000 in funding.
Councillor James Harte, Renfrewshire Council’s Sports Champion, said, “This week long series of sporting events will raise awareness about the upcoming Commonwealth Games and help teach local youngsters about the countries and sports involved.
“The aim is also to inspire and motivate local young people and build a pride in Renfrewshire, in Scotland, in our team and in what we can achieve.”
During the week youngsters will be able to try a variety of sports including: hockey, tennis, badminton, cycling, netball, bowls, rowing, martial arts, athletics and volleyball.
The week is targeted at all youngsters from P7 up to 18 years old. Sessions are being staged at Park Mains High School, King George V playing field Renfrew, Lochbar in Lochwinnoch, Linwood Sports Hub, Castlehead High School, the Power League in Blackhall Street, Erskine Swimming Pool, Ferguslie Sports Hub and Paisley Rugby Club.
Friday 19 October sees the culmination of the week’s activities when competitors will be able to take part in Renfrewshire’s first ever triathlon for young people and meet ‘Clyde Bear’, the Glasgow 2014 mascot. The triathlon takes place in Erskine and includes running, swimming and cycling. The competition starts in Erskine Pool at 1pm and finish on the Waterfont in front of Bridgewater Shopping Centre.
Friday also sees evening a Commonwealth Football League Tournament at Ferguslie Sport Centre from 5.30pm to 9pm. Teams can enter by contacting 0141 889 1110.
Shona Robison, Minister for Commonwealth Games and Sport, said, “This year’s impressive Games for Scotland programme highlights the passion and enthusiasm communities across Scotland have for the 2014 Commonwealth Games. Importantly, the programme will give thousands of people the opportunity to be part of the building excitement as we move closer to 2014.
“The wide and diverse nature of the Games for Scotland programme perfectly illustrates there’s more to the 2014 Games than just sport. The Games coming to Scotland provides an exceptional opportunity to make our nation healthier and celebrate our modern and vibrant culture, delivering a legacy Scots can be proud of both now and in the future.”
David Grevemberg, Glasgow 2014 Chief Executive said, “With the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games just finished, the attention and focus will now turn to Glasgow and Scotland as proud host of the 2014 Commonwealth Games and the excitement is already building across the country. We’re delighted that Renfrewshire Council is holding this sports week as part of the Games for Scotland programme. The programme will provide a fantastic opportunity for people across the country to participate in a number of fascinating events that will celebrate Scotland’s culture, heritage and role as host of the 2014 Commonwealth Games.”
More information on how to sign up for the sessions is available at http://activerenfrewshire.co.uk/ or by phoning 0141 889 1110.
