The 2008 Commonwealth Youth Games will take place in Pune, India from Sunday 12 - Saturday 18 October 2008.
Visiting the team at a pre-games training camp in the University of Ulster Jordanstown, Minister Campbell said: “I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the 19 young hopefuls who have been selected to represent Northern Ireland and wish them all well for the 2008 Commonwealth Youth Games. This is a wonderful achievement and one of which the team should be very proud.
“I hope the team have been inspired by the most recent Olympic and Paralympic Games, as we now move towards the next Olympic Games in London in 2012. I wish them well and hope that their aspirations about getting to the 2012 London Games will be fulfilled.”
The pre-games weekend at the University of Ulster, will provide an informative and practical programme to prepare the Northern Ireland team for their forthcoming trip to Pune. Over 1,300 athletes and 350 officials from 71 countries will participate in the games in 9 disciplines – Athletics, Badminton, Tennis, Boxing, Shooting, Swimming, Table Tennis, Weightlifting and Wrestling.
Commenting on the future of sport in Northern Ireland Minister Campbell added: “My Department, in partnership with Sport Northern Ireland has been developing a new ten year Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation in Northern Ireland. The Strategy is at an advanced stage and I hope to publish a final strategy in the near future.
“Simply taking part in sport is, in itself, fun and fulfilling and of value in its own right. Sport equally, has the potential to help deliver other significant benefits. It can, play a vital role in improving public health and contributing to our children’s improved academic performance and self esteem. It has an important role in developing cohesive communities and, as we saw in the recent Olympics and Paralympics, inspiring young people to participate and to strive for excellence.
“In recognition of the value of sport, the Northern Ireland Executive earlier this year, agreed to substantially increase the level of funding for sport over the next three years. That funding will enable work to begin on implementing the Strategy, particularly in encouraging more of our children and young people to play and enjoy sport.”
Notes to Editors:
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