Bedford & District Society

for people with learning disabilities

Secretary, Bedford Mencap

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Bedfordshire Games

 

Bedfordshire Games held its first ever event over 30 years ago and this wonderful meeting is still going strong! This year’s Games was held on Tuesday 4th July from 10.30am to 2.30pm at Bedford International Athletic Stadium.

 

Download the Press Release from 2023 Games here

 

A bit of history about Bedfordshire Games! In 1989 a group of people who were concerned about the lack of athletic activities in Bedfordshire for students and adults with severe and, profound and multiple learning difficulties, organised the first games which was held in July of that year. It was so successful that it has been held ever since and hundreds and hundreds of competitors have had the chance to take part in a range of track and field events which are appropriate to their needs and abilities. Last year over 300 athletes from all over Bedfordshire took part in a total of 74 track and field events. It was a particularly uplifting day as it was the first event following two years of lockdown and everyone was so happy to be together once again.

 

Medals

 

 

While the event is organized by a small committee of volunteers it could not take place without the involvement of many in the Bedfordshire community. Track and field marshals include local Sports Development teams and Wootton Upper School students, local charities and members of Bedford Harriers. The event is opened by Cheerleaders from Biddenham Upper School and, recently, the lunch break has been energised by an African Drummers Community group. Bedford College has generously been printing the programmes for many years. This year Bedfordshire Employment & Skills Academy has worked with two of the groups taking part in creating a sports kit for them to wear at the event.

 

To raise awareness that our athletes can access and enjoy sporting activities guests are invited each year. Over the years Lord Lieutenants, High Sheriffs, Members of Parliament, Mayors and Councillors, members of local charities, have all awarded medals and enjoyed the atmosphere and many have become longstanding friends of the Games.