Around a thousand young athletes took part in the Sainsbury’s School Games Summer Festival at Active Nation’s Yarborough Leisure Centre in Lincoln – seeing Winter Paralympian medalist Jade Etherington, national shot putter Lee Cupit and London 2012 Paralympic Athlete Sam Ruddock proved to be a massive inspiration for all of the youngsters taking part.

More than 750 children from 90 primary and secondary schools took part in 8 sports and a total of 12 different competitions and 4 inclusive events on a bumper day of action, health and well-being. Some 150 young leaders also gave up their spare time to provide support on the day.

Students from schools across Lincolnshire were welcomed by Jade, Lee and Sam who shared their experiences and cheered on the competitors.

The festival, which was organised by Lincolnshire Sport in partnership with the local organising committee, welcomed students of all abilities to take part in eight sports including athletics, boccia, goalball, golf, hockey, rounders, tennis and volleyball.

Sam, who is Lincolnshire Sport’s Sporting Champion for the Games, said: “It’s so important that we inspire young people and ensure they know the importance of sport and physical activity.

“It takes a lifetime of hard work to become a Paralympian and I try to advise children that passion, enthusiasm and being the best you can be are the best qualities to have in sport and when competing.

“Today has been an inspirational day and it is great to see such a wide range of sports taking place, especially the four inclusive sports.”

The Sainsbury’s School Games were another part of a national initiative to give every pupil in the country the opportunity to experience competitive sport and feel part of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy.

Jade said: “I think it’s really important for schools to come together like this and let pupils try out lots of different sports. They get to represent their schools and work together as a team.

“This is a great opportunity for pupils to try something new and learn all about the Lincolnshire Elite Athlete Programme which has helped so many and is available to other young sportspeople.”

Lee added: “I thought today was great. I wish this had been around when I was at school – I would have loved it. It’s been an amazing thing for me to be a part of and it’s great to see all these amazing young athletes and their talent.”

Jo Purkiss, Sport Project Officer at Lincolnshire Sport, said: “It was a fantastic day of sporting legacy. The buzz and excitement around the whole event was amazing and the inspiration that Sporting Champion Sam Ruddock, Lincolnshire’s very own Jade Etherington and LEAP athlete Lee Cupit gave to the children was unbelievable; they certainly had plenty of t-shirt signing practice throughout the day!”

Jo added: “All credit to the athletes involved when they were performing. The schools displayed all the Sainsbury’s School Games values and really pushed themselves to succeed. We also recognise the incredible support of the National Governing Bodies, clubs, host sites and facilities, and volunteers who all make these events happen.”

For more information on the School Games visit www.lincolnshiresport.com/schoolsport

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As the excitement of the The Tour de France swept across the country earlier this week, cycling enthusiasts in South Derbyshire had an additional reason to feel excited about pedal power…as Green Bank Leisure Centre in Swadlincote launched its new state-of-the-art Cycling Studio.

The studio is part of a £500,000 redevelopment which is seeing Green Bank Leisure Centre transformed with a refurbished gym, new sauna, improved fitness changing area, crèche and refurbished café. All of which has been made possible by Sport England, South Derbyshire District Council and your continued support.

The new studio, which features 30 new bikes, has allowed the venue to increase its cycling programme to 15 RPM and Studio Cycling classes per week, creating 1,800 spaces each month.

Exercise Leader James Dobson said: “Cycling is a great workout, so it’s fantastic for the residents of South Derbyshire to be able to get involved and have this great brand new facility on their doorstep. Feedback has been great, our Supporters love the new studio. The 30 new bikes combined with the new technology, graphics and our brilliant Supporters makes the atmosphere unbeatable.

“The studio is kitted out with the latest lighting and sound systems to make the experience motivating and exciting. With so many more spaces available it really is worth booking a class and checking it out!”

Green Bank Leisure Centre’s new Group Exercise timetable will be launched at the venue’s Discovery Weekend on July 26^th/27^th when a Les Mills master trainer will also be on hand to offer tips and advice on getting the most our of your workout – as well as putting everyone through their paces. It will be a great opportunity to see and experience all of the changes. For more information give us a call on 01283 216269.

If you’ve been inspired by The Tour de France and want to get on a bike – check out a great competition from Les Mills. Facebook or Tweet #RPMchallenge after completing 6 RPM classes for your chance to win a roadbike! Ends 27th July.

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Olympic hero Billy Morgan was inspired to see so many people enjoying the new freestyle session at Active Nation’s Alpine Snowsports Centre in Southampton – just like he did as a teen!

Dozens of enthusiasts turned up to get some tips and advice from the master of freestyle as he launched the new weekly session.

Billy said: “Friday evening at the freestyle launch was awesome. It’s been a few years since I’ve ridden down at the alpine centre like that.

“Rocking up to see heaps of people of all ages enjoying it like I did when I was younger is so inspiring, especially when there’s some really talented kids. I hope that it carries on, grows the freestyle scene and allows us to build on and improve the slope and features.”

Lead freestyle instructor Will Morris added: “It was such a great turn out, awesome to see some old faces from years gone by. It was a brilliant atmosphere with seasoned riders passing on knowledge to the new generation of shredders!”

More than 35 people came and had a go at freestyle skiing and snowboarding during the launch night, along with lots of spectators. Billy returned to the slope where he started almost 10 years ago, riding the brand new freestyle features and giving tips and advice to the adults and youngsters taking part.

Programme manager Hayley Walker added: “Active Nation is a sport and exercise charity dedicated to getting the nation active and especially at grass roots level in any sport. Sochi has had a huge effect on everyone and we would love to see our young skiers and boarders follow in Billy’s footsteps. It’s the start of something big at Alpine Snowsports and we hope it is here to stay.”

Freestyle Fridays run every week from 6pm to 9.30pm and include ramps, rails, slide box, quarter pipe plus other features. Each session costs £15 for adults and £11.50 for juniors, or included in the 30 day practice pass at £30 adults and £23 for juniors.

For more information call 0300 0200 135 or visit www.activenation.org.uk

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Around 400 people drown in the UK each year– that’s the equivalent of one person dying every 20 hours – and thousands more have near-drowning experiences.

These shocking statistics make drowning the 3rd biggest cause of accidental death in children in the UK! This is why Active Nation is supporting the Royal Life Saving Society’s Drowning Prevention Week and holding water safety events at many of our pools.

This year’s campaign, running from June 21-29, encourages schools, clubs, leisure centres and communities to come up with new and exciting ways to show people how they can have fun and stay safe around water. It is also adding to its usual audience of primary school-aged children by targeting 11 to 15-year-olds.

Last summer more than 30 people lost their lives to drowning in just seven weeks, many of them young men and boys, and it is hoped a new short film produced by the charity will help drive the message home to thrill seeking young people.

The families of two teenage boys who lost their lives in separate incidents are backing the campaign.

David Cullen tragically lost his life in Waterloo Lake, Roundhay Park, Leeds, on June 22nd 2005. His schoolmate, 15-year-old Christopher Copland, also drowned.

David’s sister Claire, 26, said: “We were all truly devastated the day David died. It is a day we will never forget. It was the hottest day of the year and it seemed like the longest day of our lives. It was so deeply distressing for everyone involved, and still is.

“We want to support Drowning Prevention Week as something has to be done to raise awareness of water safety and the dangers of lakes like the one in which we lost David, as well as other areas of water – all could take a life.”

Richard Fellows drowned on March 16th this year when he got into difficulties after swimming with two friends in a river pool that forms part of the River Arrow in Redditch, Worcestershire.

Richard’s dad, also Richard, said: “If he could warn people of the dangers, he would, which is why we want to raise awareness of our story through Drowning Prevention Week. If we can save just one life and prevent another family going through what we have it will be worth it.”

RLSS UK Chief Executive, Di Steer added: “We all know water is fun and we do not want to scare young people from ever going near it. But it is important for them to know that frivolity can very quickly turn to fatality if great care is not taken.

“Young people often believe they are immortal and take unnecessary risks. We want to make them aware of dangers they may not have thought of and stop them from making blind decisions that could be life changing or even life ending.”

Give you nearest Active Nation pool a call to see what is happening in your area or ask about our Learn To Swim programme. For more information on Drowning Prevention Week and RLSS UK visit: www.drowningpreventionweek.org.uk or www.rlss.org.uk

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It’s Bike Week 2014 and more than half a million people will be taking part in events, getting on their bikes and getting active!

Active Nation Supporter and ITU Para Triathlon World Champion Chris Goodwin loves going out on his bike and hopes many others will join him and get those pedals and wheels turning this week.

Despite being blind, Chris from Southampton, rides and competes on a tandem with his guide Ben Matthews. This year the pair are competing in the PT5 category and have to swim 750m, cycle for 20km and finish with a 5km run.

Chris said: “I love going out for cycle rides as I get to experience the outside in a richer way than when travelling by car. The wind, the sun and sometimes the rain. I can still cover quite a distance on roads, or go down cycle paths for a more peaceful cycle either around the city or special places like the New Forest.

“It’s great to stop and have a picnic on a longer cycle. And when I’m back home I get a pleasant ‘my legs have done some exercise’ kind of feeling.”

Bike Week is a brilliant opportunity to get cycling and see how easily it can become a part of everyday life. This year’s Bike Week runs until Sunday, although some events are organised outside of these dates.

Cycling can have massive social, health and environmental benefits and Bike Week encourages everyone to give cycling a go – whether it’s for fun, as a means of getting around to the local shops, school, the library or just to visit friends.

This week more than half a million people will join in events, rethink their everyday journeys and switch to cycling as the most convenient way to get around.

There are more than 500 events planned for 2014 – some of which are setting off from Active Nation venues. To see what’s happening in your area visit: www.bikeweek.org.uk/events

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Hundreds of people left their beds and headed to Active Nation’s Yarborough Leisure Centre in Lincoln to set a World Record and raise lots of cash for charity.

The One Night In A Onesie Moonlight Sleepwalk for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice was a massive success with events taking place in Lincoln, Louth, Boston and Grantham and saw 873 people take part – raising £68,780 for the hospice.

The walk in Lincoln attracted more than 600 participants who helped the charity to set a new World Record for ‘the largest gathering of people wearing flashing headwear’. The record took place on the athletics track at Yarborough Leisure Centre which was also where the walk set off.

Becky Otter, Event Manager for St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice, said: “This was the first time we have ever attempted a World Record and the sight of hundreds of people in flashing headwear really was extraordinary. The record was such a unique and memorable part of the evening and the atmosphere was simply palpable! Successfully setting the record was the perfect start to our annual Moonlight Sleepwalk.”

Participants set off at 10pm and embarked on a 10km walk around Lincoln before returning to Yarborough Leisure Centre for a well earned bacon roll and hot drink.

Becky said: “I am completely overwhelmed by the sheer number of people who turned out to support us across the county. Their determination and enthusiasm for our organisation resulted in a successful evening that will see over £68,000 donated to ensure the continuation of our specialist care.

“My sincerest gratitude goes to each and every one of the 873 participants who turned out to support us.

“It was wonderful to see so many like minded people coming together to unite for one common cause. The sense of community spirit was inspiring as men and women both young and old walked shoulder to shoulder for hospice care.”

Money raised through One Night In A Onesie allows St Barnabas Lincolnshire Hospice to continue to care for people who are terminally ill and dying. Last year the charity cared for more than 6,000 people across the county, creating bespoke care packages that allow patients and their families to make the most of every last moment they share together.

If you would like to make a donation or find out how you can help St Barnabas Hospice Lincolnshire visit: www.stbarnabashospice.co.uk

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Members of Team Active Nation had all the inspiration they needed when they rode alongside cancer survivor John Widdowson during the gruelling Etape de Yorkshire at the weekend.

The event – organised by the charity Cyclists Fighting Cancer– covered 120 miles across the Yorkshire Dales National Park a month before the professionals arrive to complete the same route as part of first stage of the Tour de France.

All of the entrance fees will be used by the charity to give new bikes, tandems and specially adapted trikes to children and young people who have been affected by cancer throughout the UK.

Active Nation Supporter John, 29, has raised thousands of pounds for CFC and other cancer charities after beating his own battle with the disease. He rode alongside Active Nation’s managing director John Oxley, his 15-year-old son Jonno Oxley and Active Nation’s deputy contract manager for South Derbyshire Steve Smith.

John Oxley said: “It was a fab experience – the Yorkshire weather was splendid – sunshine all day – until a horrendous downpour after we’d finished. The organisation by Cyclists Fighting Cancer was first class and the camaraderie that existed amongst the riders was brilliant.

“The Tour de France organisers say this is a stage for sprinters but with three brutish climbs along with a ridiculous 1:5 ‘wall’ at 115 miles the eclectic mix of amateur riders would beg to differ!”

John Widdowson, who works with the local Sports Development Team in South Derbyshire, added: “This was definitely the hardest ride I have ever done, but having Steve, John and Jonno there, putting themselves through it as well motivated me to keep on going.

“Knowing that the money raised is going to help those kids is all that I needed to keep on pedalling.”

John was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s diffuse large B cell lymphoma — a form of blood cancer — in January 2011. He lost all his hair and dropped four jean sizes as he underwent extensive chemotherapy at the Royal Derby Hospital. Even the simplest of tasks, such as walking his son Etoni to school, proved difficult.

On July 6, 2011, doctors gave John the all -clear. Just two days later his second child, Grace, was born.

And since this day John hasn’t looked back. He has organised fundraising events, ridden from Burton to Paris, last year his joined Team CFC taking on the worlds largest bike ride with 22,000 riders for 300km non-stop around Lake Vattern in Sweden and the charity have also asked him to present youngsters with bikes bought using cash raised by people like him.

He said: “I know the pain these children go through and have had the chemicals and treatments running through my veins. I now ride my bike and put myself through hell so that Cyclists Fighting Cancer can provide hope, spread some joy and deliver big smiles across the UK.

“Please, please have look at their website and if you can donate just £1 it will make so much difference. Times are tight, so if you can’t donate please share this and let’s spread some pedal love to children who deserve it.”

If you have been inspired by Team Active Nation get those pedals turning and get out on your bike! To make a donation to the CFC visit: www.cyclistsfc.org.uk or to support Team Active Nation please visit https://www.justgiving.com/activenation/ or text the word ‘ANUK01 £1’ to 70070 to make a £1 donation to Active Nation’s Rising Stars and Sporting Chance programmes.

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More than 1.7 million pupils from over 4,300 nursery, primary and secondary schools will take part in Healthy Eating Week this week.

The idea is to promote healthy diets and being more active, as well as improve the understanding of where food comes from and cooking.

Right now 1 in 3 children leaving primary school is overweight or obese!

With these shocking statistics should we be surprised to hear that in a recent survey of 13,100 school children across the UK for the British Nutrition Foundation (BNF) – 25% of children aged between 5 and 8 years old thought bread came from animals. And 14% of 8 to 11 year olds had the same misconception.

More than a quarter (26%) of 5 to 8 year olds and 22 percent of 8 to 11 year olds think that cheese comes from plants.

Nearly a fifth of primary school children said that potatoes come from animals.

Another quarter of primary school children, plus more than one in 10 (13%) of 8 to 11 year olds, indicated that pasta comes from animals.

One in every 10 primary school children surveyed thinks that bacon comes from sheep, while 17% think that fish fingers come from chicken.

Encouragingly, around a fifth of older children (11 to 16 year olds) want to know more about where their food comes from. This is where Healthy Eating Week comes in.

As well as education pupils in schools across the country, youngsters are also being encouraged to ‘sit less and move more’ by meeting the national recommended amount of 60 minutes physical activity each day.

So do something Brilliant today, talk to the young people in your family about the origins of food and inspire them to do something active!

For more information and advice visit the British Nutrition Foundation: www.foodafactoflife.org.uk or pop in to your nearest Active Nation venue to see what sport and exercise activities are on offer for youngsters.

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Team Active Nation will be supporting Cyclists Fighting Cancer when they blaze a trail over the course of the first stage of the 2014 Tour de France – a month before the professionals show us how it’s done!

The Etape de Yorkshire is being held on Sunday (June 8) with all entry proceeds going to the CFC which provides a unique way of helping kids with cancer through activity and exercise. They give new bikes, tandems and specially adapted trikes to children and young people who have been affected by cancer throughout the UK.

Active Nation’s managing director John Oxley, his 15-year-old son Jonno and Active Nation’s deputy contract manager for South Derbyshire Steve Smith have been busy training for the challenge. The 120 mile/196km ride is non-competitive, but the lads will be timed as they follow the first stage of Le Tour 2014 from Leeds to Harrogate on a route that takes them through the Yorkshire Dales National Park.

John said: “Having the opportunity to cycle the first stage of the Tour de France a month before the professionals was something we couldn’t resist and knowing that by taking part we are supporting such an amazing charity is simply brilliant.

“It’s going to be tough, so if anyone would like to show their support by sponsoring us it would be fantastic.”

Any money raised by Team Active Nation will be used to support our Rising Stars and Sporting Chance programmes.

Rising Stars aims to provide practical support to assist talented young sports people in their respective quests to fulfil their potential, and help alleviate any factors that are stifling their progress. One of our Rising Stars, skier Jade Etherington, won a bronze and three silver medals when she competed in the Winter Paralympic Games in Sochi earlier this year – making her Britain’s most successful female Winter Paralympian.

And Sporting Chance increases the number of opportunities available for people with physical and mental disabilities to take part in sport and exercise, assisting clubs and individuals in doing so and eradicating any barriers that are preventing their participation.

Feeling inspired? Then why not go out on your bike this weekend? You don’t have to cycle 120 miles – not unless you want to!

To make a donation to the CFC visit: www.cyclistsfc.org.uk or to support Team Active Nation please visit https://www.justgiving.com/activenation/ or text the word ‘ANUK01 £1’ to 70070 to make a £1 donation.

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Active Nation is supporting the first National Outdoor Fitness Day by encouraging all of our Supporters to get outside and active this Saturday!

Whether it’s a walk around the park with the family, a bike ride or a run to your nearest Active Nation venue – any form of outdoor exercise is going to be Brilliant for you.

The inaugural event has been organised by British Military Fitness (BMF) who have teamed up with rugby legend Austin Healey and former European and Commonwealth Champion Iwan Thomas MBE.

BMF was established in 1999, and now run more than 400 outdoor fitness sessions every week at over 145 locations across the UK – including Active Nation’s Outdoor Sports Centre in Southampton. And to encourage as many people as possible to see and feel the health benefits of outdoor fitness, BMF is offering free a one-hour class to everyone on May 31st at selected locations.

Austin said: “There are more ways than ever before to keep fit and active, yet as a nation we are becoming more obese and less active. For me, there’s no better way to keep fit and enjoy working out than in the great outdoors.”

Iwan Thomas MBE is an advocate of outdoor exercise, he said: “There are many things I love about exercising outdoors including breathing in fresh air which makes you feel so much more energized and alive. Why limit yourself to getting fit indoors, when exercising outdoors gives you so much more variety, freedom and fun. I certainly encourage everyone to get active outside, especially on Saturday 31 May for National Outdoor Fitness Day.”

Feeling inspired? Then leave the sofa and go outdoors this Saturday! For more information about BMF and their outdoor sessions visit: www.britmilfit.com

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