As the sun hopefully shines, this time of year can only mean one thing. It’s the start of the school holidays, with most schools in Wales concluding their school year over the last few days. However this year is extra special, as it’s only a matter of days until the start of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, kicking off with the opening ceremony on the 26th July. The Athletics events, always a highlight of the Games, start on the 1st August and feature a total of 48 different medal events!
However the action is not limited to the games. If you or your children are inspired to get involved in athletics over the summer holidays, then check out our handy guide below for athletics opportunities near you:
Starting Blocs Summer Camps
Welsh Athletics are excited to have partnered with Spar and A.F Blakemore to deliver 8 Starting Blocs programmes across South Wales at Aberdare, Merthyr, Butetown and Caerphilly! The camps cost £15 for 5-6 hours and follow a fun and exciting physical literacy program designed to safely introduce children to the sport of Athletics.
junior parkrun
Like parkrun, but adapted for younger runners! junior parkrun is a free, timed 2k events for those aged between 4 and 14. Courses are fully marshalled, although children aged under 11 must be accompanied to and from the event by a parent or guardian. There are events across North, South and Mid Wales so head online to find your closest.
Path to Paris
The programme aims to help communities and families get active and have fun together. Participants log their active minutes, which convert to virtual kilometres. Starting from Athens, the birthplace of the modern Olympic games, children will gather virtual kilometres to power their team bus to the Paris games and beyond.