Rutherglen Reformer

Kids under starter’s orders for Children’s Games 2022

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- SHANNON MILMINE

Kids from South Lanarkshir­e will be able to participat­e in the 2022 Internatio­nal Children’s Games in Coventry.

The council’s executive committee has decided that funding will be given to children to take part in the event which will be held next August.

Rutherglen South Councillor Robert Brown is delighted with the decision and said: “This is a really worthwhile project.

“I think it gives us a great opportunit­y to stress the advantages of outdoor activities and athletics against the background of Covid.

“It’s a hugely worthwhile thing and a bit of good publicity for the council as well.”

A total of 18 children, aged between 12 and 15, and five support staff will attend.

The trip would cost an estimated £19,000, but through sponsorshi­p and support, funding of £12,000 is required from the council.

Clydesdale East Councillor Alex Allison said: “On the financial side, it doesn’t seem to be an excessive budget.

“I think it’s more important that we have the contributi­on to these Games rather than having to restrict anything on a narrow financial basis.

“I welcome it and within reason give them the opportunit­y if further funding is required to go ahead.”

The Internatio­nal Children’s Games is endorsed by the Olympic committee, with the first event taking place in 1968.

Youngsters from South Lanarkshir­e first took part in the 32nd Games in 2000.

Since then, groups from the county have taken part in the Games five more times, most recently in 2015 at the 49th games held in Alkmaar in the Netherland­s.

South Lanarkshir­e children have also participat­ed a further four times as part of ‘Team Lanarkshir­e’ which was a partnershi­p with North Lanarkshir­e when both councils came together to host the 45th Games in 2011.

Gerry Convery, Councillor for East Kilbride Central South, praised the Games, and is delighted local youngsters will get the chance to take part.

He said: “It’s a great news story for the council. It’s good for South Lanarkshir­e, it’s good for the kids that participat­e so it’s a no brainer.”

The games will Include eight different events including athletics, tennis and boys’ and girls’ football.

Kids taking part in the games will be selected through different criteria, including rankings and performanc­e at dedicated training sessions and their current personal bests.

 ?? Delighted Councillor Robert Brown ??
Delighted Councillor Robert Brown

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