Dawlish to host South West Rotary Youth Games finals

The largest Olympic-style youth sports event in the region has awarded its 20th anniversary finals to Teignbridge district for 2018.

Dawlish is set to host the South West Rotary Youth Games finals on Saturday 7 July.

The annual multi-sport event was launched as the Devon Youth Games in 1999 and has since expanded across the South West to include teams from Cornwall and every Devon District competing in 20 sports.

Around 10,000 young people aged 8-18, both able-bodied and disabled take part in the journey towards the Games each year.

South West Youth Games Trust Chief Executive Chris Broadbent said: “Dawlish Leisure Centre is a fantastic facility and we have every confidence that Teignbridge Leisure will be superb hosts for our finals.

“We have some really ambitions plans to grow the Games in 2018 to become a year-round programme of physical activity opportunities across the region.

“But our finals remain our showcase event. With the main leisure centre, acres of grassland and surrounding facilities in a town on the main train line, we have a real opportunity to deliver the best finals ever in our 20th anniversary edition for participants and spectators alike.”

Cllr Jeremy Christophers, Leader of Teignbridge District Council, said: “To see Dawlish host the South West Rotary Youth Games is, for me, like things coming full circle. Back in 2014, the event was at risk of being lost and Teignbridge played a key role in its revival.

“Team Teignbridge has won the Games four times and has been runner-up twice, not to mention provided expertise and support to take the multi-sport event into a new era.

“The day itself is fantastic – seeing young people come together to enjoy positive camaraderie and sport is a real joy. Dawlish Leisure Centre has quality facilities that’s perfect for participants and spectators alike.

“We’re looking forward to 2018 and what the Games may bring under the leadership of new CEO Chris Broadbent. With his vast experience in the sport industry, I’m sure the Games have a bright future. Can Team Teignbridge win it for the fifth time with the home advantage? Bring it on!”