Lord Coe Visits a Go-Ride In Preston
News Posted 24th September 2008
Sebastian Coe KBE, Chair of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games visited the North West on the 23rd September and his visit included a trip to the Go-Ride activities at Preston Arena. Lord Coe commented that “Our vision is to inspire children and young people through the London 2012 Games. The region’s athletes at the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games have certainly done this. By motivating young people in the North West and capturing their imagination we can help them to fulfill their potential, and create a legacy that will continue long after the London 2012 Games have ended.”
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his was clearly demonstrated in his visit to the Arena. Chris Newton, an Olympic Bronze medalist also supported the event presenting medals to the riders. Dylan Clayton, a former BMX World Champion and Go-Ride Coach delivered the Go-Ride coaching session which provides the link between the schools and the local Go-Ride community clubs in the area such as Red Rose Olympic, Ribble Valley Juniors, Mid Lancs BMX and Preston Pirates BMX clubs.
What Lord Coe saw was the culmination of 4 weeks of Go-Ride Coaching at Frenchwood Primary School that taught the basic skills required to ride safely and successfully. These school sessions are part of the Physical Education School Sport Club Links initiative. Lord Coe’s visit coincided with the final session that involved taking the young riders to the arena to try out the sport at a dedicated facility.
The Olympic and World cycling champions inspiring young people to pursue their interest in Go-Ride community cycling clubs is a clear example of how the legacy of the Olympic Games can be realised. After the Beijing Games provided a unique and excellent inspiration for young people, the London Games really will be a great opportunity for young people across all of our regions to get active and involved in sport.
