May 25th is set to be a day full of sporting opportunities with something for everyone planned … Frances Rayner one of the key organisers said ‘ We have worked hard to grow the Games this year by providing more activities so that we can attract a bigger crowd but we also want to ensure that we keep the day manageable so that everyone has a good time’. New taster sessions have been welcomed and include Boxing with Steven Kirby Downham Boxing Club, Football with Downham Football Club and Kings Lynn Community Football and Golf from Denver Golf Centre.
To ensure the day is a huge success an event such as this needs plenty of volunteers including organisations and individuals which is something Frances has not found difficult to find this year. Ryston Runners has been behind the Games since year one and without support from their members it would be difficult to ensure the technical aspects of the athletics competition. ‘It is important to ensure that all coaching provided for the 6 event competition is correct so that those taking part know that it is a fair competition where they can learn technique and any basic rules’. Another key organisation supporting the Games is Downham Market Leisure Centre. Amy Metcalf Duty Manager and her team is going to run a fun Tyre Push and mini triathlon competition and will also be leading the group warm up at the start of the athletics competition and a Zumba taster session at the end.
‘My team and I have seen the Games grow over the past two years and feel that this is a fantastic event for the local community. Our centre is a big part of the community and this is a great opportunity for us to give something back. We are excited about our mini triathlon competition which will be open to all. It includes a 750 M row, 2000 M cycle and will incorporate the 400 M run which is part of the athletics competition. There will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes offering a free months membership to the centre for a variety of activities.
Downham Games organisers were in Downham Market Academy visiting house assemblies last week to promote the event amongst the students. Olympian Paul Evans joined the team to help get the message across and then went on to hold 1athletics track sessions with several PE groups. ‘The Games has always been well attended by young people age 8 – 12 years with a missing age group of 13 – 16 years’ Frances said. ‘We hope that this initiative will see growth in this age group as students from the Academy come along and see what is taking place.
The Downham Games starts at 10.30 am on Sunday and is open to everyone whether you live in the community or outside of it.
To find out more about the Games you can contact Frances Rayner at [email protected] , find them on Facebook – The Downham Games and follow them on Twitter – @DMGames2K14
