The Third ‘ActivLives Community Games’ were held recently at the Gainsborough Sports Centre in Ipswich, targeted at people over the age of 50, who don’t currently take part in regular sports activity.
The participants competed in a variety of adapted sports including kurling, boccia, badminton, bowls, short tennis and table tennis. “Most of the sports were offered in a taster format with a competition element added to them as well”, explained Mike McCarthy, ActivIpswich Project Manager.
“The Games have shown to be a great success, the support has been tremendous with over 50 participants coming from across the Ipswich area to take part. Events such as this help to demonstrate that there is a real appetite amongst this age group to get involved with sport and physical activity opportunities that are enjoyable, engaging and not too serious! The atmosphere has been absolutely brilliant.”
ActivLives would like to thank all of the participants who helped to make it a really enjoyable day. Particular thanks go to Roger Osborne, ActivLives Patron, and Evie Edwards, GB Paralympic Boccia player, for presenting the medals and for their continued support for the work of ActivLives. “We very much appreciate the support of Evie and Roger at events such as this. Their own passion for sport is obvious and it serves to inspire others”, added Mike.
The ActivIpswich initiative is a partnership between ActivLives and Ipswich Borough Council and is supported by Sport England and the National Lottery. It is designed to encourage older adults to get involved (or to get back involved), in sport and physical activity.
If you would like to find out more about the ActivIpswich project and how to get involved, please contact ActivLives on 01473 345350 or email mike@activlives.org.uk