Athletes are on their marks for challenge

YOUNG athletes from across the borough are limbering up to take take on the cream of the region’s sporting talent tomorrow.

Teenagers in Team Oldham, backed by Oldham Council’s Integrated Youth Service (IYS), are set to take part in the Champions Challenge 2010.

The future sports stars are aiming high and are hoping to bring back a clutch of medals from the event, formerly known as the Greater Manchester Youth Games.

The Champions Challenge 2010, which is being held at Wright Robinson Sports College and Manchester and Trafford MV (Rugby), is a competition involving the 10 local authorities of Greater Manchester.

Last year, more than 600 young athletes aged 12 to 14 competed in seven sports — badminton, netball, girls’ football, rugby union, table tennis, cycling and rowing.

Team Oldham had more than 70 young people competing at the event and finished third in the overall medal table.

It is hoped future talent will be unearthed and potential champion athletes found.

Councillor John McCann, cabinet member for community services and housing, said: “The Champions Challenge is great way for the borough’s youth to showcase their sporting talents to a wider audience.

“I wish Team Oldham all the best and hope they do themselves and the borough proud.”