HUNDREDS OF youngsters took to their marks to be part of the 30th annual Saddleworth Village Olympics.
This year’s tournament got off to a tremendous start as almost 500 people attended the opening ceremony at Saddleworth School to launch the fortnight of sports.
Then children launched into the sporting programme of 15 events across six venues, including football, swimming, athletics, netball, rugby, dodgeball and more.
A small piece of history was made as three different events took place at three different venues on Sunday, September 6 – a first at the games.
And special guests helped to make the competition one to remember as they turned out to present prizes and cheer on the children as they competed for their villages.
At tag rugby local ace Joe Greenwood, who plays for St Helens, was guest of honour while Suzie Chapman from Manchester Thunder’s coaching team presented the netball trophies and Olympic swimmer Jessica Lloyd handed out the swimming trophies.
Village Olympics Co-chairman Jon Mayor said: “This year has been a great spectacle and the events have been well supported, with a high quality of sport on view.
“I hope some of this year’s competitors return as coaches, volunteers or supporters in another 30 years to ensure the games can celebrate its 60th anniversary.”
Co-chairman Adrian Green added: “Once again the people of Saddleworth came out in force to support this great local event.
“The children all seemed to enjoy themselves and that makes the hard work that goes into planning and putting on the event worthwhile.”
Trophies for the winning teams and the Frank Sykes Fair Play Award will be presented at a glittering awards evening later on.
For a full list of winners and for details about next year’s event, visit www.saddleworthvillageolympics.co.uk
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