Schoolchildren inspired to become next sporting superstar at ‘Mini Olympics’
Paralympian silver medallist Karen Darke inspires the next generation of sporting superstars at a Mini Olympics event held for Sheffield school children.
The ‘Mini Olympics – Road to Rio’ were hosted by B. Braun Medical Ltd and held at the English Institute of Sport.
More than 80 children attended from four different schools: Pathways Academy, St Bedes Catholic School, Stonelaw Junior School and Pye Bank Primary School.
The children, aged between seven and nine, competed in a number of field, track and relay events and had the opportunity to talk to Karen about her story as she trains for the Rio Olympics this summer.
Karen, a Paracyclist who won silver in the road cycling at the London 2012 Games said: “Events like this are so important for motivating and inspiring young people.
“It is crucial we encourage children to be active and take part in sport as a part of their normal lifestyle from a young age, and that we show them how fun it can be too.
“It’s been great seeing how much the children have enjoyed themselves and I have loved being able to talk to them about my Olympic medal and my road to Rio - I hope it inspires them that anything is possible if you work hard and believe in yourself.”
Karen was made a B. Braun ambassador in 2010 and the healthcare firm has worked with and supported the Paralympian on a number of charitable and commercial projects over the years.
The Mini Olympics were held as part of the B. Healthy – B. Braun programme which was launched in 2014 with the aim of improving the health and wellbeing of young people across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire.
The scheme provides primary schools with a range of athletic and academic opportunities, including professional basketball and dance tuition, a video clip competition and an enterprise project, as well as talks on nutrition and exercise.
Rozey Christian, PR Manger of B. Braun Medical Ltd: “Our B. Healthy – B. Braun programme aims to improve the health and wellbeing of young people in our region through engaging them in activities which make exercise and sport fun.
“Importantly, role models like Karen also inspire and motivate the children – showing them that they can achieve their dreams if they work hard and put their mind to it.
“The feedback from the children has been brilliant too, they’ve really enjoyed the day and talking to Karen about her medal has been a real highlight.
“We wish Karen the very best of luck with her summer ahead and we look forward to supporting her all the way.”