2011 games
NHS Lanarkshire has welcomed the decision to award the 2011 International Children’s Games (ICG) to Lanarkshire and believes it will provide a massive boost to the health of the population.
The announcement by the ICG Committee was made early on Friday morning, from this year’s Games in San Francisco.
Lanarkshire can now begin preparations to host one of the world’s biggest and most prestigious sporting events.
The Children’s Games will involve up to 2000 young athletes aged between 12 and 15 along with coaches and officials from more than 70 countries for what has become known as the ‘mini Olympics’.
And NHS Lanarkshire is sure the decision will provide a massive incentive to children to increase their participation in sports and help improve the health of the region.
Gabe Docherty, health promotion manager for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “This is a big prestigious event and it is fantastic Lanarkshire has been recognised by the world community.
“The focus on young people is absolutely critical in that it encourages as many young people as possible to participate in sporting activities.
“Having the Games in Lanarkshire provides the opportunity for all children in Lanarkshire to strive to make the team.
“Even if they are ultimately unsuccessful they will still be winners as they will have gained a host of benefits.
“Taking part in sport and physical activity is very important to our young children, not only in terms of health, but also the social aspects of engaging with others.
”NHS Lanarkshire also congratulated the local councils for their efforts in securing the Games.Gabe added:
“Both North Lanarkshire Council and South Lanarkshire Council have made significant efforts to promote participation in sports and physical activity and it is superb that these efforts have been recognised.
“NHS Lanarkshire has supported these initiatives and been involved in a number of joint programmes to encourage our children to be more active and participate in exercise.
“We look forward to working with our partners in North and South Lanarkshire Councils and the community to make this the best ever Children’s Games."