Despite the Coronavirus restrictions, Devon’s schoolchildren will still be able to take part in the popular School Games this year. In fact, it’s ‘virtually’ the same as normal!
Active Devon, working with partners, is launching the ‘Virtual’ games which get underway with a Walk, Jog, Run challenge starting on Monday, May 18th. Primary School pupils will have 20, 30 and 40-mile targets, while those in Secondary Schools will aim for 40, 60 and 80 miles. All those taking part will be able to compete at home, in the garden, or by adhering to social distancing rules and using safe open places. Once a challenge has been completed entries can be submitted on-line.
One thing hasn’t changed. There will be medals, certificates, and special awards for each event. All entries will also be included in a draw for the chance to win some great prizes. The school with the highest percentage of pupils taking part will also be recognised.
The Virtual Games continue through until July 13th and other challenges include the ‘Sportshall’ Pentathlon, Dance, Boccia (Sock-ia) and the Andy Murray ‘100 volley’ event.
The last event will be a set of family-based challenges which will run throughout the summer holidays.
Every Monday at 10 am throughout June a new challenge will be posted on the Active Devon website and each competition will be open for a limited amount of time. Youngsters can take part in as many as they want.
“Devon’s youngsters love taking part in the School Games, so, even though our normal event can’t go ahead, we wanted to create something virtually,” said Lisa Alford from Active Devon.
“Obviously safety is our number one priority, but we have designed this so that all those involved can achieve their targets either at home, in the backyard or garden, at school, or in open spaces near to where they live.”
“With the added incentives of some great prizes, I am sure the hundreds of children and their schools will be keen to take part and continue our tradition of friendly rivalry across the county.”
Full details of the Devon Virtual School Games can be found on the Active Devon website
https://www.activedevon.org/devonvirtualgames-is-virtually-the-devon-school-games/
All those taking part will be able to share achievements on social media using the hashtag #DevonVirtualGames
Facebook – @schoolgamesdevon
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