Swimming and athletics festival held for school pupils

Events designed to launch school pupils on a path to sporting success.

Swimming and athletics festival held for school pupils STV News

More than 100 school pupils have been taking part in an athletics festival and a swimming gala.

The event at Forfar Community Campus in Angus hopes to launch pupils on a path to sporting success.

The Tayside Disability Swimming Gala for beginners saw 50 pupils take the plunge to represent their schools.

The gala, which also tours Perth and Dundee, supports children and young adults with a physical, sensory and learning disability.

“We are delighted to bring this event back to Angus after such a difficult period for all,” Laura Smith, from organiser Angusalive, said.

“The main objective is to reintroduce our swimmers back to the water and for everyone to participate, progress and achieve together.

“It’s all about everybody’s abilities, it’s not about their disability, and swimming is a great leveller.”

Stewart Porter, a 16-year-old pupil at Forfar Academy, said: “Swimming is one of my favourite sports to do.

“I don’t mind if I win or lose, I’m just going to enjoy the swim.”

Meanwhile, the Fun in Athletics festival saw 100 Angus primary six and seven pupils compete in relay races and field events.

Race and relay events were part of the fun.STV News

Scott Nicoll, community sports coordinator, said: “The competitions are renowned for their electric atmosphere.

“Our festivals could not run without the support of Dundee and Angus College students, who take to the track and field as scorers and support the pupils throughout the events.

“Additionally, it gives the pupils festival experience in which they can build on throughout their course.”

There are six festivals over a two-week period open to all primary schools throughout Angus.

The top two finishing schools will represent Angus at the Tayside and Fife regional final on May 10 at Dundee Regional Performance Centre.

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