Minister for Heritage, Alun Ffred Jones, has launched Gemau Cymru, a new all-Wales multi-sport event for young people.
Gemau Cymru is a national school sports competition that will be held between 8-10 July 2011 in locations across Cardiff. It will be a partnership between the private, public and third sector and aims to capture the inspiration of the London 2012 Games and deliver a lasting sports legacy for Wales.
The nine competitive sports involved in Gemau Cymru will be Netball, Rugby, Girls Football, Gymnastics, Athletics, Canoeing, Triathlon, Swimming and Disability Sports.
All nine sports will be structured and managed via a close partnership with the relevant Governing Bodies, they will advise on selection process, structure of event and the age of competitors.
The Minister for Heritage, Alun Ffred Jones, said:
“I am delighted that the Assembly Government is supporting this event which will give our budding sports stars an opportunity to experience the unique atmosphere of a multi-games event. The event represents a unique and historic partnership between the public, private and third sectors, and will hopefully prove to be a lasting legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games for Wales.
“I hope the event will encourage and inspire more young people to take up sport and physical activity and provide them with a platform to showcase their talents.”
Efa Gruffudd Jones, Urdd Gobaith Cymru Chief Executive said:
“Urdd Gobaith Cymru is delighted to lead and manage this exciting project, using our sporting experience and expertise to organise this brand new event for the young people of Wales. Gemau Cymru will ensure a lasting legacy for Welsh sport as a result of the 2012 Olympic Games and will provide a showcase for the best of Welsh school age sporting talent.”
Olympic, Commonwealth and World Triple Jump Champion Jonathon Edwards, who was at the launch, said:
“I am pleased to support Gemau Cymru, that will give the young people of Wales top class sporting opportunities. The excitement of the Olympic 2012 buzz is really starting to catch on throughout the U.K and this multi-sport event will give young people in Wales the chance to be part of a large scaled national sporting event.”
Gemau Cymru will be a three year project.
