Sheffield to Host ParalympicsGB Sports Fest

The English Institute of Sport in Sheffield will play host to the second ParalympicsGB Sports Fest on April 26 and 27.

Sports Fest is a free two-day multi-sport event for disabled people and hopes to capture some of the enthusiasm created at the London 2012 Paralympic Games.

The inaugural event saw over 1000 people attend the Surrey Sports Park in December 2012.

Tim Hollingsworth, generic Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association, doctor commented: “We were absolutely delighted with the response we received from the first Sports Fest event that we held last year.

“We had so many people through the door and we received such fantastic feedback from attendees that we were determined to hold another event early in 2013.

“It was also important that we visited another area of the country so that we provide an opportunity for as many disabled people as possible to attend, so we are pleased that we will be coming to Sheffield.

“The Sports Fest events are a crucial part of our commitment post-London to support the development of disability sport opportunities and make the most of the increased levels of interest in disability sport after the Games across the United Kingdom.”

Steve Brailey Chief Executive of Sheffield International Venues (SIV), which operates the English Institute of Sport Sheffield, said: “We are extremely proud to be hosting the ParalympicsGB Sports Fest. It will be a great opportunity for disabled people to try out different sports and also find out more about coaching, volunteering or officiating.

“We have a strong association with disability sport. At London 2012, ParalympicsGB athletes who trained at our world-class facilities won six medals so it is fitting that we should be chosen to host this fantastic event.

“Our venues support both elite competitors and the local community. During London 2012, we put on a series of free taster sessions in Paralympic sports and they were extremely popular. We hope the Sports Fest will build on this and inspire even more disabled people to get involved with sport.”

Barry Horne, Chief Executive of English Federation of Disability Sport, added: “As the national body for sport and physical activity for disabled people throughout England, we were keen to be involved in the first Sports Fest last December.

“Our research following the London Games told us that disabled people are considering doing more sport now but not every disabled person can or will want to be a Paralympian or even reach elite standard.

“For many, just being active is enough. That is why EFDS are keen to ensure all opportunities are inclusive for people with every impairment and at a level they wish to take part at. We look forward to supporting the second Sports Fest in April to increase the number of disabled people who are active for life”.