Mini Games returns to Stoke Mandeville

Mini Games 2003
Supported by Sir Jules Thorn Charitable Trust

DISABILITY SPORT ENGLAND, SUPPORTED BY SIR JULES THORN CHARITABLE TRUST, IS PLEASED TO ANNOUNCE THAT THE FIRST NATIONAL MINI GAMES IN 2003 WILL BE HELD ON 10-11 MAY AT STOKE MANDEVILLE, AYLESBURY.

Approximately one hundred 7-12 year olds will gather at the newly renovated stadium. This event is for children with all disabilities, who want to try sport, often for the first time. These children usually go on to develop in one particular sport (or many in some cases!) and continue through our Junior and Senior programmes. Therefore, it is an ideal opportunity to look out for champions of the future and identify potential sporting prowess.

Following the success of the boys' team from India in 2002, the girls' team are returning to continue the sporting experience. We wish these children and their guests a very enjoyable stay.

The Nationwide Junior Sports Awards will be given again to the 2 most outstanding children and team at the event. The awardees will receive their bursaries on 3rd December- International Day for Disabled People.

Sports included this weekend will be Polybat, Table Tennis, Boccia, New Age Kurling, Swimming and some Track and Field events.

This is the second of a three-year funding programme for the Sir Jules Thorn Charitable Trust.

Ann Rylands, Chair of the Trust stated:-
" I am delighted that the trust is sponsoring the Mini Games for the second year and I am sure that it will be another wonderful weekend.
I do hope the sun shines for you but even if it doesn't I know that you will all have a great time."

This grass-roots event will be the first one to be held at the centre following massive renovation works.

Dave Meli Contract Manager of Stoke Mandeville Stadium explains: -
"Having just been reopened by HRH Prince Charles following a £10 million refurbishment, the stadium is excited about welcoming all the competitors to the centre to make use of the brand new facilities".

We wish all the children and volunteers the best of luck for the weekend ahead.

Event Manager Jannine Butler 020 8801 4466/ 07803 904763
Media Contact: Sarah Marl  020 8801 4466/ 07903 449545

Disability Sport England co-ordinates 14 National Championships and over 200 regional events- making us the number one events agency in the country.  Our system for multi-disability competition is renowned and respected around the world. We are proud of the millions of disabled sportspeople who are constantly coming through our programmes.