Get up, get out, and get active (From Swindon Advertiser)

Get up, get out, and get active

5:24pm Wednesday 10th March 2010

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SWINDON Robins’ one and only Leigh Adams has kicked off events aimed at getting youngsters away from their Playstations and enjoying more energetic activities.

The Robins legend, who many consider one of the best speedway riders in the world, said the upcoming Festival of Sport to be a great opportunity to get out of the home and into the fresh air.

He also hopes the festival will recruit new sports fans and enthusiasts to get into shape through athletic activity.

During the event, which is to run on April 10 and 11, the town centre will be transformed into a haven of sport, ranging from football to surf-boarding, cricket to golf, and speedway to ice hockey.

Youngsters and adults alike will be urged to take part in activities alongside the town’s biggest clubs including Swindon Town Football Club, Robins speedway, and Wildcats’ hockey stars.

Three of the country’s most talented ball skills experts – Macca, Ash and Lubz – will demonstrate their skills and gravity defying stunts as part of a new freestyle football team.

Meanwhile, an event called beat the starter facility in which the public can test their reaction times in starting speedway bikes will be in Wharf Green along with a Soccer AM style inflatable target goal.

Some of the other activities include Velcro golf, puck and net exhibits, and a surfing simulator.

Leigh said: “Life is too easy for kids these days. They sit in front of the telly or the Playstation all day – there are too many things to do inside.

“It is great to be able to support something that is going on outdoors.

“I grew up on a farm in Mildura, Victoria, Australia, so I was always outside on the push bike or motorbike, doing sport.

“The first thing that sport is great for is obviously exercise, but it is also about team building and spirit – that is a big plus for any youth.”

The father of two added: “My son loves doing all these things like Facebook and Playstation, but we make a concerted effort to get our children out on the bikes or for walks.

“I must say it is harder in this country than in Australia, with the weather, but people have to make a concerted effort to get outside.

“I hope this gives them the opportunity.”

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