READY, STEADY mO FOR RUNNERS:
3000 YOUNGSTERS ENJOY SPORTING LIFE BY GOING ON THE RUN AS PART OF GLASGOW’S SCOTTISH RUN WEEKEND
MORE than 3000 school children laced up their trainers and raced in Glasgow to complete a sporting extravaganza. John Kelai, from Kenya, the 2010 Commonwealth Games marathon champion, started the first race – leading off the excited youngsters on Glasgow Green.
Primary pupils from across the city took part in the 1.5K fun run in the Bank Of Scotland Great Scottish run Schools Challenge.
now in its third year, the Challenge is linked to the Great Scottish run, which is expecting 23,000 participants to line up for the start tomorrow.
As well as running, children were encouraged to try out Olympic sports including badminton, table tennis, rugby, gold, basketball and volleyball.
Councillor Archie Graham, chairman of Glasgow life and the council’s spokesman for the Commonwealth Games, said: “I was delighted to see so many smiling faces at Glasgow Green. It was clear the children were having a great time.
“In the wake of london 2012 and as we look forward to hosting the 2014 Commonwealth Games, we want to see our young people lead more active lifestyles. events like this can only encourage our children to make sport a part of their daily lifestyle.”
Philip Grant, chairman of the Scottish executive Committee, lloyds Banking Group, the parent company of Bank of Scotland, said: “I am delighted to see the popularity of the Challenge continue.
“The event is now firmly established as part of the Bank Of Scotland Great Scottish run’s wide range of events across the weekend, giving people of all ages the chance to participate in Scotland’s biggest mass par-
Events like this can only encourage our children to make sport a part of their daily lifestyle
ticipation sporting event. Well done to all who took part.”
This year’s Great Scottish run will feature two days of sporting events, with today’s event featuring the Junior Great Scottish run at George Square.
This year, the weekend is
open to all ages, with the first Family Mile and the new Toddle Dash.
I n total there are six races, including the junior mile and 3K, which is open to youngsters aged nine to 17, while on Sunday there is the half marathon and 10K.
Scotland’s track star, Eilish McColgan, will be at the event alongside London 2012 mascot Mandeville.
Lee McConnell, the 400m runner; Tim Baillie, who won an Olympics gold medal in the canoe slalom; Eilidh Child, the 400m hurdler; and judo star Euan Burton will be at the London 2012 Experience at the finish area at Glasgow Green.
Both the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Torches will be on display.