There was a record turnout for this year’s Isle of Man Great School Run, with over 950 primary school children and their teachers taking part in a 2km fun run.
The Isle of Man Great School Run, powered by Microgaming, was held at the NSC on Monday 17th June and proved a great success, attracting hundreds of school children from across the Island, aged between five and 11.
The Great School Run concept was introduced nine years ago throughout the UK, to encourage children to take a more active approach to exercise in school. To provide the ultimate inspiration for those taking part in the local event, Great British athlete Helen Clitheroe was on hand to share her running experiences and provide some expert tips. Helen got the action underway by starting the 2km run and once the children crossed the finish line, assisted with the awards ceremony.
Impressed with the huge turn-out, Helen Clitheroe comments: “It was fantastic to see so many children take part; they were all incredibly enthusiastic, it was an absolute joy to see. My passion for running began when I was in primary school, and so to be involved with an event which encourages young children to partake in sports is a real honour.”
Upon completion of the run, all participants, including teachers, were presented with medals, supplied by Microgaming and each school had a photograph taken with the GB star athlete, to mark the achievement.
Roger Raatgever, CEO of Microgaming, says: “We were delighted to be involved with the sponsorship of this event and to be there on the day to hand out medals and congratulate all of the children as they crossed the finish line.”
The Great School Run programme is overseen by Nova, a company which specialises in mass participation sporting events. Nova worked alongside the Department of Community, Culture and Leisure’s Sports Development Unit to bring the event to the Island.
Hon Graham Cregeen MHK, Minister for Community, Culture and Leisure, comments: “The Department, through the Sports Development Unit, are happy to support such a fantastic event. We are committed to providing children with the opportunity to exercise in a fun environment whilst using the best facilities possible. I am delighted that over 950 children took part in the Great School Run at the NSC and hope that they continue to enjoy the huge range of sporting activities available around the Island.”
Photo - Isle of Man Great School Run, powered by Microgaming. Photos by Bill Dale.
