Disability sports festival held at Tipton Sports Academy

Date added: 16 July 2012

More than 100 adults with disabilities enjoyed a day of activities at a 2012 themed sporting event in Tipton last week.

The event, which took place at Tipton Sports Academy on Thursday July 12, was part-funded by the Co-operative Community Fund.

User groups enjoyed a day of team events and competitions inspired by the forthcoming games.

The festival began following an official opening ceremony which saw performances by The Performing Arts Group.

Events included a team Boccia competition which involves throwing a ball at a target, and a Kurling competition. Participants also competed in track and field events such as speed bounce, standing long jump, sprinting, hurdles, seated bean bag throw and the shot put and javelin.

All participants received a medal with prizes awarded to the first, second and third place winners.

Lisa Rashid, Physical Activity Development Officer, said: "We soon saw that we were going to have far more participants than we had expected. When the groups saw what activities were on offer, and that there was something for everyone to participate in regardless of their ability, everyone wanted to take part."

Tom Denham, General Manager for Sandwell Council Adult and Community Services, said: "The Tipton Sports Project was set up over two years ago and it's great to see how it has led to greater involvement in sport for people with a learning disability in Sandwell.

"Well done to everybody involved!"

Following the success of the festival, it is hoped that it will become an annual event.

For more information please contact the Sport and Physical Activity Team on 0121 506 4980.