The Wight Games Festival has been a great success in its first year and there is still time to take part.
Two major events are taking part this month; one ideally suited for families and the other perfect for those looking to take up a new sport.
Classic school sports day comes to Quarr Abbey
The Traditional Sports Day at Quarr Abbey on 21st and 22nd August 2026 will bring a flavour of the classic school sports day to the Festival.
Egg and spoon races, balance the bean bag, running races and hobby horse races are among the fun events planned, with medals and certificates on offer.
There will be something for people of all ages and Quarr are aiming to make the event as accessible as possible.
The events will run from 10.30am to late afternoon in the beautiful setting of the abbey gardens and proceeds will go to Wight Games Festival, which is raising money for three amazing Island charities, Mountbatten Isle of Wight, Independent Arts and the IW NHS Trust Charity.
Tracy Osborn, Director of Fundraising and Operations at Quarr Abbey, said,
“We are delighted to be hosting our first traditional sports day at Quarr Abbey as part of the Wight Games Festival, supporting the chosen charities. We look forward to seeing lots of people join us and to everyone having lots of fun.”
Try your hand at gig rowing
Also supporting the three charities is the Island Gig Rowing Club who are running a Try Gig Rowing Day at Island Harbour on 22nd August 2026.
The Club is putting on the taster session form 10am to 1pm and are inviting people interested in getting on the water to come along.
Their message is
“Come along and have a go at gig rowing. Please wear comfortable sports clothing and trainers that you don’t mind getting wet.
“We also ask that you bring a bottle of water with you.”
To receive full details about the day, email the club at [email protected]
Kurling and cricket also on offer
Also this month the Isle of Wight Federation of Women’s Institutes (WIs) will be running its rescheduled kurling event (the Winter Olympic favourite without the ice) at Northwood Village Hall on Thursday, 20th August 2026, from 2pm to 4pm.
And there are still cricket sessions at Northwood on 22nd and 26th August 2026.
Mike Christie, founder of the Wight Games Festival, said,
“I am delighted the way the Island has got behind this first festival. It will be great if we can add to the total and go out with a bang by supporting these final events of the 2026 festival.
“We are already looking forward to bringing the festival back in 2027.”
How to get involved
Visit the website for more information on all these events and you can donate online.
News shared by Alan on behalf of the Wight Games Festival. Ed
