Free 'Golden Games' event inspires next generation

Children attending an Olympic-themed holiday club say the activities, along with the 2024 Games, have inspired them to "be the best" at sport.

Former Team GB Volleyball player Peter Bakare, who competed in the 2012 Olympics, set up the scheme in Milton Keynes.

"This is how I got into playing sports: when someone came into my community and gave me a chance to try different things," he said.

In partnership with Places Leisure and the 5 On It Foundation, hundreds of children from the city have taken part in activities promoting healthy eating and sport.

The same club will run next week for children living in refuge.

Following on from events in schools across Milton Keynes, a "Golden Games" final was held at St Paul's Catholic School on Thursday.

One parent, Emily, said: "I was amazed. It looks like a children’s version of the Olympics, it is very well organised.

"My son is only seven and is very sporty. He was spider-manning across the stairs before he learned to walk.

"It was great to have an opportunity we don’t usually get," she added.

Rhianne, 11, was brought to the event by her cousin and said: "I’ve really enjoyed it. We made spring rolls, which were amazing."

She was also inspired by watching the Olympics and seeing USA gymnast Simone Biles win gold.

"The Olympic gymnastics were incredible," she said.

"When I grow up, I want to be like Simone Biles. I can do cartwheels, handstands, bridges."

Lennie, 11, said the holiday club was "really fun, as you get to meet new people".

"I normally play basketball and bit of football," he said.

"You've got to try out more stuff and become better at what you do.

"The Olympics makes you notice how people try to do their best, and it shows how much people can do. That's why I play basketball - because I want to be the best," he said.

Sarah, 10, described herself as "really really sporty".

"I like trying new sports, depending what it is - dodgeball, gymnastics, running," she said.

Mr Bakare said whether children became serious about sport or not, or just enjoyed getting moving, the club gave them a boost.

"These are the first steps, when you feel like ‘I enjoyed that, can I take it a little bit further’ or 'It’s good to be fit and active'. Both are good," he said.

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