Team Halewood are hailed victorious for the second year running as they win the Older People’s Fun ‘O’lympics held on Friday (25 September) at Kirkby Leisure Centre.
The event was a massive success, with over 160 participants turning out to support the four teams Huyton, Halewood, Kirkby and Prescot as they competed for the title of ‘O’lympic champions.
The event kicked off with each team taking centre stage to sing their own ‘local anthem’ in true Olympic style, surrounded by hand made banners and family & friends who turned up to show their support. Once each team had sung it was time to take their places for the games to commence.
Rivalry was in the air as the teams competed against each other in activities such as table tennis, darts, welly throwing and scrabble. All teams competed very well during the competition and much fun was had by all.
Cllr Eddie Connor, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Community and Culture was at the event cheering on the teams said “The Fun Olympics have been fantastic this year; I particularly liked the customised anthems! And all the teams looked like they were thoroughly enjoying themselves.
“The aim of the training sessions and the Fun ‘O’lympics is to give older people the chance to represent their local area, meet new friends and stay active whilst having fun at the same time and I hope the participants continue with the training sessions after the Olympics.”
Dr Diana Forrest, Knowsley’s Director of Public Health said “The number of participants and volunteers involved in the Fun Olympics is fantastic to see. The look of pride on the participant’s faces was amazing and contributed to the excellent atmosphere on the day.
“It is great to see people enjoying activity that supports their physical and mental wellbeing, confirming that regular exercise can be part of a fun and sociable lifestyle. We believe that the Older People’s Fun ‘O’lympics is something which could be rolled out nationally.”
The trainings sessions will continue after the FUN ‘O’lympics to encourage people to stay active and improve their health and wellbeing.
Training sessions will take place:
- Kirkby Leisure Centre – Wednesdays, 1pm – 4pm
- Halewood Leisure Centre – Wednesdays, 10.30am – 12p
- Whiston Willis (Space and Arts Building) – Thursdays, 1pm – 3pm
- Huyton Leisure Centre – Thursdays, 1pm – 3pm
For more information on any Sports Development’s Older People’s sessions, please contact Michelle Gilmurray on 0151 443 5894.
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