Devon Youth Games 2006
15th July 2006The listing was posted by
It was a glorious sunny day when the 1,100 young people representing their District took part in the 2006 Devon Youth Games held in Tiverton on the 15th July.
Now in its eight year the competitors, aged eight to 16 competed in their chosen sport. Venues across Tiverton were used for the 10 sports of athletics, badminton, girl’s cricket, hockey, netball, tag rugby, tennis, volleyball, street sports, and an aquathlon - a swim and run.
And it was a great day for the hosts, who won the overall trophy and the Fair Play Trophy - the first time an authority has picked up both awards.
The games - which started in 1999 - are a focal point to celebrate youth sport. The event is part of a coherent sports development process within the County and together with the Active Sports Programme, creates a wide range of opportunities for young people to participate and compete at grassroots.
Along with the 10 sports Gemini FM provided fun and entertainment throughout the day. The Army were also there with their interactive truck. This was packed with games and activities to give the youngsters a taste of army life or to learn survival techniques from the Devon and Dorset Light Infantry. There was an inflatable squash court, bouncy castles, a rowing challenge and lots of food, drink and ice- cream to keep everyone happy.
In the afternoon, the 2012 Roadshow visited the Exe Valley Leisure Centre. The Roadshow is on a national tour which began on July 6th, the first anniversary of London's successful Olympic bid. The aim of the Roadshow is to spread the word on how people can be part of the 2012 London Olympics and Paralympics. Olympic Gold medallist, rower Ed Coode was one of the key figures of the Roadshow and he gave advice to the young athletes on how to progress in their chosen sport.
Andrew Lacey from Mid Devon District Council said the day was a huge success: "It all went brilliantly well. The weather was great, and everyone seemed to have a good time”
"And it was obviously great for Mid Devon, because not only did we organise the event, we also won the overall trophy and the Fair Play trophy."