A Rio carnival atmosphere surrounded the opening ceremony of a three-day sports event which has taken place in the East Riding to showcase the sporting abilities of adults with disabilities.
The competitors, who attend day centres across the East Riding, have competed in a range of track and field events, including frisbee golf, athletics, and wheelchair racing, as part of the Legacy Games 2016.
The playing field at Longcroft School, in Beverley hosted the official opening ceremony which saw all seven teams, in their team colours and bearing colourful banners and flags, take part in a procession with a carnival theme in honour of the Rio Olympics 2016.
East Riding of Yorkshire Council chairman Councillor John Dennis welcomed everyone to the games and thanked all those involved, including Longcroft School, for helping to make the event a success once again.
Councillor Richard Harrap, portfolio holder for adult and carer services, said: “The Legacy Games are without doubt a highlight in the events calendar for day services in the East Riding, and what better time to hold this year’s event than during the Rio Olympics.
“The event is a great opportunity for people with learning disabilities to get together and enjoy a really fun and healthy day.
“There is a real competitive spirit to the games with everyone, including competitors and staff, getting really involved which is great to see.”
Teams competing on the day represented day services from Haltemprice, Holderness, Beverley, Goole, Pocklington, Driffield and Bridlington.
Other sports that featured in the event included frisbee throwing, tennis ball throwing, boccia, new age bowls, skittles, new age kurling and football.
The second day of the tournament saw teams attend Foresters Arms, in Beverley for darts, dominoes and pool competitions, while a Wii bowling competition was held at Millers Day Centre, Beverley ahead of the games.
The overall winning team was Priory View, Bridlington; while Millers, in Beverley took second place and Waterview Lodge, in Driffield were third overall.
Councillor Caroline Fox, East Riding of Yorkshire Council vice-chairman, presented the medals and trophies to the competitors.
Now into its fifth year the Legacy Games were launched in 2012 to tie in with the London Olympic Games and is annually organised by East Riding of Yorkshire Council in partnership with Longcroft School.
Community sports coach Adam Swann, of the Sport, Play & Arts Service, added:
“It is always fantastic to see so many people getting together to enjoy sport on this scale in such a fun, friendly and social setting.
“The Legacy Games are just that, a true Olympic legacy, which continues to generate so much passion, competitive spirit and enjoyment for all involved. Everyone taking part really gave it their all and did a fantastic job.”
The event organisers have thanked everyone who has supported this year’s games, helping to once again ensure their success.
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