Some quirky events have been lined up by organisers for participants who will be taking part in the Keswick Games later this month.
The “fun event for the whole community” will be taking place at Townsfield park, off Penrith Road, on Sunday August 18 and will feature traditional spots and games with a twist.
Events on the day will be split into two age ranges – adult teams of six, and children’s races based on age from under six to under 14. Children will sign up on the day, but teams will need to sign up in advance.
Registration on the day will be from 9am, with the actual races starting at 10am.
The team games will be:
- Egg and spoon relay – this is a traditional egg and spoon but in a team format. Competitors pass the egg to a team mate at 50m intervals;
- Team sack race – all members will be in one sack but will have to move as one to win the race;
- The seven-legged race: This is a beefed up version of the three-legged race. It will require participants to move as one in sync. This will take team effort and speed;
- Tug of war – pull the rope to win using brute force, power and teamwork;
- 600m relay – a sports day classic. Each team member will run 100m each before passing on the baton;
- Obstacle course – team members will have a five-piece inflatable obstacle course to contend with. Each person has one ball of the same colour, and one at a time they must get it to the end in a race against the clock.
Team scoring for each game is on a points based system. For team games with more than three participating there are three points for first place, two for second place and one for third place. For the toe-to-toe games three points will be awarded to the winners.
All points will be updated on the big scoreboard as the day goes on to keep track. There is space for 18 teams on a first come first serve basis. Details on how to sign up can be found at: https://keswicktowncouncil.gov.uk/keswick-games-2024/
For children’s races, there will be an egg and spoon race, 50m race, sack race, skipping race, space hopper race and 200m race.
There will be nine categories for each race, from under six to under 14 for each race. Keswick Scouts will be managing this aspect of the day.
Children will be charged £2 for each race they take part in, but the cost for the team is £100 to take part in six games. It is hoped Keswick Rugby Club will provide beer, Luchini’s will be selling ice cream and the Shap Chippy Van will be on site for those who want to eat on the day.
There will be no parking available and people are being encouraged to walk to Townsfield.
The games were suggested by Cllr Rob Nelson and were supported by his colleagues on Keswick Town Council.
