Youth Team Challenge 2003

This Sunday, 26th October Cleethorpes is to play host to a physical challenge, which involves teams of 5 young people aged 13 - 16 years. The team will take on five challenges between them, the challenges are a 'run a cycle' a 'row a swim' and a wheelchair race as well as a team relay at the end. The challenges are time trials and the winning team will be decided by the shortest aggregate time. Prizes include sports vouchers and gym membership. All competitors will also receive a medal, certificate and a goody bag.

The event has been organised through a partnership which includes North East Lincolnshire Council Youth Service and Sport Development as well as Humberside Police 'A Division', Bananas Fitness and Health and Sports and Leisure Management. The event has been majority funded through New Opportunities Fund although each member of the partnership has contributed.

The make up of the day allows young people of all abilities to participate and be a part of a team, thus encouraging team work and social skills running up to and following the event. There is an element of Disability Awareness through the wheelchair race. In addition, the young people will have the chance to compete in something physical with options to continue in most of the sports with local clubs following the event, some of which have volunteered to help make the day a success. Fitness training sessions have been available for several weeks for competitors, running up to the event with kind thanks to Grimsby Harriers Athletics Club.

Councillor Keith Brookes, leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, said: "As we know regular participation in physical activity has a positive impact on both physical and mental health, with competition being a motivator for young people to become or continue to be involved in sports and physical activity on a regular basis. We hope that this event will do just that."

Youth Team Challenge 2003 is a pilot however if successful it is hoped it will be opened up and run again next year. If you would like further information on this event please contact Pippa Gilbank, Positive Futures Officer, Sport Development on 01472 323391 or Mick Charles Senior Youth Worker, Youth Service on 01472 500029.

24 October 2003

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