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Commonwealth sports on the waterfront

A Min Commonwealth Games village offering a host of sports for people to try is being created on Liverpool's Pier Head, on Saturday, 3 September 2016. The aim is to promote the City's intention to bid for the Commonwealth Games in 2026 and build on the enthusiasm created by Team GB's success at the Olympics in Rio. A total of 9 sports will be on offer from 1pm to 5pm in the shadow of the City's world famous Three Graces including athletics, hockey, cycling, gymnastics and tennis. Some of the sports will be competitive, with the winners being presented with their medals on a special podium. Liverpool FC Foundation coaches will be holding football skills training and also present will be some of the City's Commonwealth Games ambassadors, including Everton FC legend Graeme Sharp.  People will also be able to find out more about the Fit for Me campaign which is being run by Liverpool City Council and NHS Liverpool Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG). Fit for Me is looking to get everyone in the City more active. There'll be the chance to make a smoothie using pedal power alone, have a go at doing some gardening or simply sign up to the Fit for Me e-newsletter and receive a voucher for a free swim at any Lifestyles centre. More information can be found online.

Assistant Mayor and Cabinet member for leisure and culture, Councillor Wendy Simon, said:- "We have all seen the incredible success that our athletes have had in Rio recently and we want people who are inspired to get involved in sport to find out more about what's on offer in the City. It's not about becoming the next Katarina Johnson Thompson or Bianca Walkden, but is about showing how enjoyable sport can be and how it can help improve your physical and mental health and wellbeing. The Pier Head is a great setting to hold this type of event and, as well as taking part in the sports taster sessions, people will also be able to spend time in the area to enjoy the activities on offer in the Liverpool Village."

The event is being sponsored by promotional merchandise firm Wild Thang, who are providing the medals and winners t-shirts.

Andrew Dwerryhouse Wild Thang Managing Dierctor said:- "As a local business we were proud to hear Liverpool was intending to bid for the Commonwealth Games. The potential is huge to make a difference, creating further regeneration and promoting positive sporting lifestyle choices to the people in our region and beyond. It's always a special moment seeing your very own merchandise, branded clothing and print in action, so now we can't wait to get involved by going for gold on the 3 September 2016! We hope our involvement is an extra incentive for other companies around the region to get involved and back the bid."

The full range of sports on offer at the event from 1pm to 5pm will be:-

► Athletics.
► Badminton.
► Boxing.
► Hockey.
► Netball.
► Basketball.
► Cycling.
► Table Tennis.
► Tennis.

Liverpool Watersports Centre (Queens Dock) are also offering free sailing and kayaking taster sessions as part of the day. The activities will start from 9.30 and pre-booking is essential as places are extremely limited. To book call:- 0151 708 9322.  The Commonwealth Games Sports Village will form part of the Liverpool Village, a 3 month summer festival which has seen the Pier Head transformed into an oasis of culture, music, food and activities.

Martin O'Shea, Managing Director of The Liverpool Village, said:- "The Liverpool Village team are all excited to welcome such a great programme to the Pier Head this Saturday. It promises to be a really fun day out for everyone, with the chance to get involved and try a new sport out at the same time."