Grand Celebration Kicks off Kent School Games

A breathtaking evening of top talent by 200 young people last night marked the Opening Ceremony of the Kent School Games finals.

From the first crash of drums from the Fulston Manor School samba band from Sittingbourne, it was a night of energetic performances from young dancers, singers and musicians including the spine-tingling African drumming by Dartford Grammar School, joined by singer Kwayedza Kureya, 16 and the sassy rendition of Respect by Girl Funk Band fromSimon Langton Grammar School for Girls, Canterbury.

Five groups from schools in Ashford, Maidstone, Hythe, Tonbridge and Herne Bay each performed a dance piece depicting one of the Olympic and Paralympic values of Inspiration, Personal Excellence, Respect and Friendship, Determination and Courage and Equality.

In true Olympic and Paralympic Games style, the showcase of arts marked the beginning of the finals for the Kent School Games, thought to be the largest school sports event in Europe which has seen over 30,000 young people aged 4-16, competing in heats and trials in 38 different sports. Around 6,000 competitors will now battle it out for the top spots in the finals, running till 4 July.

The Kent School Games, organised by Kent County Council has been recognised by central government as a model for a UK School Games and Paul Carter, Leader of Kent County Council spoke at the ceremony about his pride in the Games:

"My aim was to raise the profile of competitive school sports and give young people the opportunity to enjoy the immense pleasure of taking part in sport. I am delighted that the Kent School Games has been recognised nationally and I am confident that this event will continue to grow and give countless more young people the chance to compete and enjoy the spirit of the Games."

Dame Kelly Holmes, double Olympic gold medal winner and long supporter of the Kent School Games joined compere, comedian Dave Lee to talk of her enthusiasm:

"I am immensely proud of being from Kent and I have been so moved by seeing these young people and how talented they are. They are all stars. It is not always about being the best but being the best you can be and that’s exactly what this is all about. Let’s applaud their amazing efforts. Well done."

The Heats

Since September competitors have been taking part in more than 300 heats and trials.

 

 

For more about the Kent School Games please visit the website