Viking challenge champions inclusion and inspires residents to get active
Around two hundred people came together on Saturday 27 June for the Viking 1,2,3,4,5k – an inclusive community event designed to break down barriers and encourage people living with long-term health conditions to become more active.
Starting and finishing at The Venue at Roses Sports Ground in Gainsborough, participants of all ages and abilities wheeled, walked, jogged, and ran along the town’s riverside, choosing the distance and pace that suited them best.
With temperatures rising throughout the morning, organisers took the decision to reduce the maximum distance to 3km to ensure participant safety. Despite the change, participants embraced the challenge with enthusiasm, with everyone encouraged to complete the event in their own way.
Delivered through a partnership between West Lindsey District Council and Curly’s Athletes, the event was supported by volunteers from Gainsborough and Morton Striders, who staffed checkpoints along the route and encouraged participants throughout the morning. Council officers were also on hand to provide support and present Viking-themed medals to everyone crossing the finish line.
Chairman of West Lindsey District Council, Councillor Matt Boles, attended the event to support participants.
He said: “It is great to see the event held in Gainsborough, at Roses Sports ground. It is fantastic to see so many families, children and older people taking part, despite the hot weather. Events like this bring people together, encourage healthier lifestyles and show what can be achieved through partnership working. We are proud to support Curly’s Athletes and everyone who helped make this inclusive event such a success.”
The Viking 1,2,3,4,5k was funded by the council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund as a pilot event, aimed at encouraging more people living with long-term health conditions to enjoy physical activity in a way that works for them.
The event created a welcoming and supportive atmosphere from start to finish, with participants, families and supporters praising the opportunity to take part in an event designed to be accessible for everyone.
Friends Catherine and Jo attended with their children Freddie and Rory.
Jo said: “It was so nice to see how people with wheelchairs and pushchairs could get around with no issues. It has been very inclusive. We have had a lovely day, and we would love to come back next year if it is on.”
Hannah Lane, Community Officer, Sport, and Physical Activity at the West Lindsey District Council helped organise the event.
She said: “It has been an excellent event. It has demonstrated that sports and physical activity can be inclusive.”