Preparations underway for Lanarkshire hosting International Children's Games 2011

Nov 25 2009 by Graham Mann, East Kilbride News

PREPARATIONS are already well underway as Lanarkshire aims to host the International Children’s Games in 2011

North and South Lanarkshire Councils are dedicated to managing an event that will showcase Lanarkshire to the watching world and leave a lasting sporting legacy for young people throughout the area.

To highlight the Games coming to Lanarkshire, more than 80 road signs have been erected across Lanarkshire’s boundaries to raise public awareness of the biggest sporting event ever to be held in the county.

Councillor Michael McCann, co-chair of the Lanarkshire 2011 Organising Committee, was on hand to see the final sign being installed at the B766 Carmunnock Bypass.

Councillor McCann said: “Hosting the International Children’s Games in 2011 gives Lanarkshire the perfect opportunity to showcase our strengths and talents to a global audience.

“Between now and the Games, we want as many people as possible to have an awareness of the event and the boundary signs will be another step in enabling us to reach a great number of people.

“It’s vital we use every opportunity to spread the word about the Games and the legacy they will leave for young people throughout Lanarkshire for years to come. We have signs from Rutherglen to Clydesdale as part of our campaign to generate as much awareness and excitement about the Games as possible.

“We want the legacy of the Games to act as an inspiration to young people to get involved in sports at grassroots level and enjoy all of the associated benefits this involves – improving health, boosting confidence and self-belief and motivating them to achieve their ambitions.”

Up to 1500 competitors aged 12 to 15, along with coaches, administrators and delegates from more than 70 countries will head to Lanarkshire for the International Olympic Committee-recognised event in August 2011.

Further information on the Lanarkshire 2011 International Children’s Games can be found at by visiting www.icg-lanarkshire2011.com