Thousands expected at ProActive Festival

Inspiration will come free of charge at the ProActive Islington Sports and Cycling Festival at Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium’s Podium on Saturday.

After fantastic success last year, Islington Council will again deliver a day chock-a-block full of  sports-themed exhibitions and activities designed to get the whole community involved.

Arsenal in the Community coaches will again be involved, running a penalty shoot-out all day and also a walking tour of the local area with a focus on Highbury’s history.

More than 13,000 attended last year’s festival, including Islington resident Michelle Stroud. Encouraged by ProActive, Michelle has since introduced more healthy activities into her everyday life. She said: “I went along to the ProActive Festival last year and there was such a buzz of excitement that I was inspired to get more involved in sport.

“I’ve just run the Edinburgh Marathon which I would never have dreamt of doing a year ago. I’ve also got more involved in the local community and taken up coaching for Islington Netball Club”.

Islington Netball Club is one of many that will run taster sessions at Saturday’s event. Other highlights include: the fantastic Cycling Zone featuring Bike Polo, crazy bikes tryout and flatland BMX stunt riders, and the Sports Zone, climbing walls, rowing challenges and interactive sports demonstrations. The Family Area and Health and Dance zones prove there really is something for everyone.

Cllr Ruth Polling, Islington Council’s Executive Member for Leisure and Equalities, said: “We had such a brilliant turn out at last year’s Festival and the feedback was really positive so we’re expecting even more people to share in the fun this Saturday.

"ProActive is just one of the many ways the council is promoting healthy living among Islington residents. Our record investment in cycling, leisure centres, parks and open spaces as well as increasing free access to leisure facilities for young people and pensioners means everyone can get stuck in.

“There are so many fun, healthy activities on offer this Saturday, so come along, enjoy yourself and let the council help you kickstart your healthy lifestyle.”

The fun starts at 12pm and ends at 6pm, and remember it’s free for all!

[Thursday, June 18, 2009]

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