On the eve of the launch of the NatWest Island Games, this in from the council, in their own words. Ed
With the 14th NatWest International Island Games kicking off this weekend on the Isle of Wight, local residents and sports clubs can look forward to a lasting legacy of the event.
As part of the preparations for the sporting extravaganza, which is one of the world’s biggest participation sports events, many local facilities have been upgraded. These improvements will then be enjoyed by the public.
Gift and talented schemes
It’s not just equipment that will be part of the legacy, many local sports clubs have set up talented and gifted schemes, while the NatWest Island Games has formed part of the curriculum in primary schools.
The Cowes community will soon see a colourful mural based on the games brighten up part of the town in The Cut next to the High Street, while children in partner islands are setting up primary school Island Games events, having been impressed with the annual competition held on the Island.
Several improvements across the Island
Amongst the improvements to facilities include seven fully refurbished squash courts at Westridge Leisure Centre, which have been upgraded to an international standard class.
Medina Leisure Centre’s sports hall has just had its floor re-sealed and lines repainted, plus a new electronic basketball scoreboard has been installed.
Sandown’s Fairway sports complex has also been upgraded, including the installation of a 150 seater stand which will remain for use by Sandown High School and the community.
“The NatWest Island Games will be remembered for a long time”
Lee Matthews, IW Council’s Recreation & Public Spaces Manager is working with the Island Games Committee to organise the event. He said “Just like the London 2012 Olympic Games will leave a legacy, the NatWest Island Games here will also be remembered for a long time.
“Not only are we seeing many local facilities being upgraded for all to use, the legacy will continue off the sports field as it were. For example, a scheme we are setting up as a result of the Games is a new talent scheme aimed at primary school children called Primary to Podium.
“It is about nurturing sporting talent from a young age and giving them the best platform with which to develop their skills.”
Aiming to inspire
IW Council Leader David Pugh hopes the games will inspire many members of the local community, saying “When the Games were first announced as coming to the Isle of Wight, the council pledged its full support and provided half a million pounds in funding. We also continue to provide significant officer support.
“What is pleasing is that the event will encourage more people into sport, whether that be playing or coaching, and that can only benefit the local community and increase health levels.
“The Isle of Wight is very honoured to be hosting the Games and I look forward to a week of intense competition, but years of benefits once the games are over.”
Image: Universidad de Navarra under CC BY 2.0
