Thursday 28 July 2011

DASH Games

It was the hottest day so far this summer and the venue at St Luke's school in Exeter was great. The coaches worked hard to give everyone a good time; and it was everyone. The kids, aged from 3 to 15, and the carers who joined in.

I have enjoyed all the days I have attended, but I was so moved on Monday. Kids who have had difficult lives were being given a special day. The organisers ran themselves ragged making sure everyone was having fun and joining in.

London 2012 is being used to encourage more people to get active. I would like the naysayers to come along to the next DASH event and to take part in the many local activities that are being organised.

Friday 22 July 2011

(Nearly) One Year to Go!

This weekend is the Open Weekend for lots of cultural events. Not any near me, but plenty in London and other cities.

On Monday it is the DASH Games in Devon. These are for looked-after and disabled children in the area and thank goodness someone thought to put on something especially for them. RELAYS is working with the County Council and lots of other partners to run this.

I am invited along and I want to try and get some names for young people to nominate to take part in the Torch Relay via Lloyds Bank. It would be great to see some kids who haven't had much support in life being recognised.

On Wednesday evening it is a Team Devon evening to bring us all up to date on the plans for 2012. In Devon there are to be two overnight stops with the Torch Relays so two chances for fireworks!

Then no events for a month so I can stop and take a breather.

Tuesday 5 July 2011

100% Me!



I helped with an Anti-doping day at Exeter last week run by Scientists in Sport with UK Anti-doping and others.

Did you know that at London 2012 they will test for over 2000 banned substances? What do you think should happen to athletes who fail a test? A lifetime ban, a four year ban or disqualification and bad publicity?


Olympian Jason Gardener believed there should be bans.


These and other points led to lively discussions with the 13 year olds present.


Read more on the University website at http://www.exeter.ac.uk/





Monday 4 July 2011

Devon Games Inspired!

I was ill so couldn't go along, but the photos are great. Despite the wind and rain the kids all had a good time and you can see that for yourself by looking at the photos.

Ryan Scott, the young athlete who came along as the special guest, was a star and wonderful with the kids. He was mobbed! Even the photographer commented how good he was.

See for yourself on the RELAYS website by following the link below.

www.universitiessouthwest.ac.uk/relays.aspx