Going for Gold in Chippenham
I remember feeling quite proud when London won the race to host the Olympic Games in 2012. From my work with the South West Regional Development Agency, I was well aware of the efforts that many people had put in to support the bid, not just in London, but here in the South West too - where the sailing events will be hosted at the National Sailing Academy in Dorset.
The 2012 Games bring many benefits: economic, cultural and sporting, but above all they showcase some great role-models who challenge to the next generation to raise their aspitations, and to be the best they can.
The good news is that even in Chippenham we may get a slice of the action. I recently met with local sports and business people in the town who have come together to bid for International teams to make Chippenham their base and training ‘village’ for the Games, utilising facilities such as Scott Mackay’s Gym UK (pictured).
Already, the Koreans have expressed their interest but, as Sandie Webb explained to me, it is hoped that Chippenham will be promoted to the world in a brochure to go to all competing teams at next year’s Olympic Games in Beijing, China.
This kind of initiative is commendable, and I wish the volunteers co-ordinating our bid the very best of luck. The Olympics promise to inspire a whole generation of our young people to achieve their very best. Bringing top athletes and sports people to Chippenham could make that dream a reality here in Wiltshire.