Weymouth’s excellent reputation for hosting great sports events continues in 2015 with the announcement of the Sports and Well-Being Festival, from 11 July to 26 July.
Following a successful bid to the ‘Inspired by 2012’ Health and Well-being Legacy Fund, organisers Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, Dorset County Council and Active Dorset are planning a two-week programme of activities and sport.
Activities are aimed at promoting an active lifestyle and showcasing the great facilities and clubs available throughout the area.
Organisers of the Sports and Well-being Festival are inviting local businesses, organisations and clubs to be part of this exciting festival. It is an excellent opportunity to engage with the local community and raise awareness of many of the exciting clubs, classes and outdoor activities happening right on our doorstep.
Weymouth & Portland Borough Council Head of Tourism Matt Ryan said: “We are delighted to have secured support from the Health and Well-being Legacy Fund and look forward to working with many local partners to host this great summer festival.
“We aim to attract over 10,000 visitors to this year’s festival with the emphasis on fun, participation and inspiring lifestyle changes. The range of festival activities will offer something for everyone.”
A major highlight of the festival will be a Have a Go Fun Weekend on 18 and 19 July. A mass participation event on Weymouth Beach and Seafront, visitors to the festival will be able to try a range of beach sports, water sports and take part in many interactive health activities and workshops. The weekend will also include a number of events and activities including Aquathon, Nordic and health walks, bike rides and beach exercise classes.
Dorset County Council Sports Development Manager Dave Franks said: “This year’s event is very exciting, giving people of all ages and abilities a chance to get active and find out about their health and how to stay healthy.
“We’d love lots of local people to come along for a friendly, fun and free experience, which we hope will inspire them to take on a new challenge.”
On 16 and 17 July the festival will feature the very popular Dorset Special Schools and Adults with Disabilities Sports and Well-being Festivals. A wonderful opportunity for over 500 local children and adults with learning difficulties to take part in many activities including beach sports, arts and crafts, music workshops, boat trips and water sports.
The festival will begin on Saturday 11 July with Weymouth’s Park Run at Lodmoor Country Park, Tag Rugby Festival on Weymouth Beach and the GU Energy Triathlon starting and finishing at Bowleaze Cove with the traditional swim, bike and run challenge.
Throughout the two weeks a series of events and activities will take place throughout the borough including:
- Royal Navy Beach Rugby Festival on 15 July
- The RAF Careers Weymouth Beach Volleyball Classic between 24 and 26 July
- The Battens Charity Beach Volleyball Classic (23 July)
