Olympic heroes make waves in Ealing
Published 21 August 2012
Some of Team GB’s biggest names visited Ealing on Friday to kick off their national British Olympic Heroes Tour, presented by British Gas.
Almost 200 local children took part in water activities at Ealing Council’s Gurnell Leisure Centre, led by swimming stars Rebecca Adlington, Kerri-Anne Payne, Michael Jamieson and Hannah Miley. Team GB divers, water polo players and the synchronised swimming squad were also on hand.
The tour aims to inspire youngsters across the country to take part in all types of aquatic sports following the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Rebecca Adlington said: “London 2012 was an amazing experience with huge crowds, and if we as Olympians can inspire more children to get in the pool as part of the legacy of the Games that will be incredible.
“It’s great to be involved with the Heroes Tour and I hope all the kids taking part across the country have a fantastic time. Hopefully they’ll continue in the sport and some may even be lucky enough to experience an Olympics or Paralympics.”
The lucky children participated in diving lessons, water polo games, swimming skills and synchronised swimming workshops, as well as swim safety and resuscitation training.
Councillor Julian Bell, leader of Ealing Council, said: “I was delighted to see such incredible sportsmen and women visit the borough to inspire our local children. This was the first London stop for the British Olympic Heroes Tour and we were very proud to be the hosts.”
The event was run by Total Swimming, with the help of GLL who manage Gurnell Leisure Centre.
To get involved in sports and activities in Ealing, visit www.ealing.gov.uk/activeealing