Meadowbank Sports Centre – The NEN

Festival City Stories launches at Meadowbank

Street advertising specialists JACK ARTS Scotland have teamed up with the Edinburgh Festivals to share some of the many hidden community stories that sit behind the more well-known festival events – all displayed as an accessible street exhibition surrounding Meadowbank Sports Centre.

Festival City Stories highlights people involved in year-round partnerships between some of Edinburgh’s leading festivals and local community groups, schools and organisations – all captured by Edinburgh-based photographer Ellie Morag.

The resulting artwork of imagery and words celebrates a diverse range of projects – from children exploring what their rights mean to them, to music programmes sparking joyful connections for people living with dementia.

Amongst the Festival City Stories highlighted are:

Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society work with Oaklands additional needs school, on the creation of an interactive multi-sensory show drawing on the importance and exploration of objects
Edinburgh International Children’s Festival work with Forthview Primary School, in piloting their new Creative Encounters programme which takes a child’s rights-based approach to programming work
Edinburgh International Festival work with Space @ The Broomhouse Hub, on development of The Beacon Club which uses music to spark joyful connections with people living with dementia and facing social isolation
Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival work with Passion4Fusion and St Augustine’s RC High School, on HAIR, which centres on Black Hair stories, exploring key historical and political moments up until the present, and how these are diverse representations of ‘Blackness’/Black Culture.
Scottish International Storytelling Festival work on Sensing Stories, an inclusive series of storytelling sessions for groups interested in using storytelling as a wellbeing tool and for developing performance skills
Edinburgh Art Festival work with Rhubaba, on a co-created programme of free workshops and events to connect marginalised artists with creativity through film, theatre, photography, ceramics, writing, and more

Jim Cowan, Partnerships and Marketing Manager, JACK ARTS Scotland shares: ‘It’s a pleasure to use our shared street space to champion these vital community voices from year-round partnerships between some of Edinburgh’s leading festivals and local groups, schools and organisations.

“From inclusive storytelling sessions to workshops using the power of objects to unlock creativity – Festival City Stories helps share and celebrate their incredible work with a wider audience by showcasing these artworks on our city streets.’

The public gallery of artworks will be displayed on JACK ARTS Scotland’s poster sites surrounding the Meadowbank Sports Centre, on London Road and Wishaw Terrace, from 17 February to 2 March 2025.

Rising boxing star Lee McGregor prepares for career-defining moment at Meadowbank Sports Centre

Scottish boxer Lee McGregor is gearing up for the biggest fight of his career at the state-of-the-art Meadowbank Sports Centre, ahead of his upcoming bout on the high-profile Tyson Fury – Oleksandr Usyk world title rematch undercard in Saudi Arabia on 21 December.

Just days before his 28th birthday, McGregor sees this opportunity as the culmination of his lifelong boxing journey. He will face Isaac Lowe in what promises to be one of the most anticipated fights of the year.

McGregor has been meticulously preparing at Meadowbank, adapting his training schedule to match the fight’s timing in the Middle East. His camp has included diverse sparring partners from England, Glasgow, France, and Spain, ensuring comprehensive preparation for the crucial match.

The venue holds special significance for McGregor, who previously trained at Meadowbank’s amateur boxing club as a young kid, where he represented Meadowbank Amateur Boxing Club, training in the old gym.

“Being able to train back at Meadowbank with their state-of-the-art facilities and a dedicated boxing gym, is incredible,” McGregor said. “It’s where my boxing journey began, and now I’m preparing for a world-class event.”

Josh Anderson, Operations Manager at Meadowbank Sports Centre said: “It’s been a huge privilege to welcome someone of Lee’s calibre to our facilities. We’ve enjoyed meeting him, his team and sparring partners for his final training camp, ahead of what will be the biggest fight of his life.

“We wish him all the best and will be rooting for him.”

The £47m Meadowbank Sports Centre, reopened in July 2022, represents a significant investment in community sports and wellness, offering expanded facilities to support physical activity and athletic development.

The new venue supports accessible participation and has improved indoor facilities including two multi-sport games halls with seating, three fitness studios and a gym with triple the number of exercise stations and a boxing gym, among its facilities.

Fans interested in boxing can explore Hatton Boxing classes through Edinburgh Leisure: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/hatton-boxing

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/venues/meadowbank-sports-centre

Snooker’s biggest stars heading for Edinburgh

Snooker’s all-time greats head for the Meadowbank Sports Centre in Edinburgh next month for the BetVictor Scottish Open, with the star-studded line up and first round match schedule now confirmed.

Gary Wilson will be aiming to win the title for a third consecutive year, in a fantastic field which includes Scotland’s top player John Higgins, world number one Judd Trump, World Champion Kyren Wilson and many more green baize giants. The event runs from December 9th to 15th at the superb Meadowbank Sports Centre venue in the heart of Edinburgh.

Tickets are STILL AVAILABLE but must be booked fast now that the draw is out. They start at just £15 for one session, or £25 for an all-day ticket which gives fans the chance to watch a wide range of the world’s top stars. For all ticket details visit www.wst.tv/tickets

Gary Wilson, who beat Joe O’Connor in the 2022 final and Noppon Saengkham to retain the title in 2023, starts his defence against China’s Long Zehuang on the opening morning of the tournament on Monday December 9th.

Huge first round clashes over the first two days include:

Gary Wilson v Long Zehuang – – Monday December 9th at 10am

John Higgins v Ian Burns – Monday December 9th at 1pm

Mark Allen v He Guoqiang – Monday December 9th afternoon

Judd Trump v Ishpreet Singh Chadha – Monday December 9th at 7pm

Mark Williams v David Lilley – Monday December 9th evening

Kyren Wilson v David Grace – Tuesday December 10th at 1pm

Mark Selby v Stuart Carrington – Tuesday December 10th afternoon

Luca Brecel v Julien Leclercq – Tuesday December 10th afternoon

Shaun Murphy v Daniel Wells – Tuesday December 10th at 7pm

Ronnie O’Sullivan v Xing Zihao – Tuesday December 10th at 7pm

Neil Robertson v Fan Zhengyi – Tuesday December 10th evening

WST’s Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Tom Rowell said: “Edinburgh has proved a fantastic location for this event and the players have enjoyed packed crowds and a sensational atmosphere over the past two years.

“So we’re delighted to return to the Meadowbank Sports Centre especially with an incredibly strong line-up of our sport’s leading players. Tickets are already selling fast as this is the opportunity to watch world class sport from as little as £15. With such a high standard on the tour and so many epic matches already this season, there has never been a better time to watch snooker live.”

This is the third of four events in the BetVictor Home Nations Series, with the leading money winner across the series to bank an extra £150,000 bonus. Neil Robertson currently leads the way, just ahead of Kyren Wilson, with Judd Trump third. So there’s plenty at stake aside from the battle for the Stephen Hendry Trophy in Edinburgh.

The BetVictor Scottish Open is televised by Eurosport, discovery+, DMAX and many other broadcasters worldwide.

Edinburgh Leisure’s Festive Gymnastics Spectacular – It’s a Balancing Act!

Tickets are now available for Edinburgh Leisure’s 18th annual Festive Gymnastics Display, where more than 800 gymnasts and cheerleaders from six Edinburgh Leisure venues, plus guest clubs, will come together to dazzle audiences at Meadowbank Sports Centre on Sunday, 24 November 2024.

Dorothy McQueen, Gymnastics Development Officer, explained: “Gymnastics is a great way for individuals to learn and build on the fundamentals required for physical development, well-being, and personal growth.

“Our annual Festive Display provides a fun and energetic way to the showcase skills the gymnasts and athletes have been working so hard on throughout the year.

“The focus for this event is on participation and enjoyment, rather than perfection, allowing gymnasts and athletes of all skill levels to shine. The atmosphere is relaxed and supportive, making it a delightful experience.

“It’s a bit of a balancing act to keep youngsters interested and engaged in sport, but our Festive Display adds a real sparkle to our programme for both participants and spectators!”

Alongside over 30 performances by Edinburgh Leisure gymnasts, the event will feature special guest appearances from regional clubs like Acrobay, Cheer Evolution, City of Edinburgh, Falkirk, Jack Kane, and Kestrel, showcasing a range of talent.

Edinburgh Leisure is also looking for volunteers to help the event run smoothly. With over 1,500 spectators and 500+ participants expected, volunteers are crucial to keeping things on track.

“You don’t need to know anything about gymnastics to help,” Dorothy McQueen shared. “It’s a great opportunity to get involved, whether assisting with registration, helping out in the warm-up area, or guiding guests to their seats. Anyone with time to spare, even part of the day, is welcome!”

Anyone interested should contact Dorothy McQueen – Dorothy.mcqueen@edinburghleisure.co.uk

Tickets are priced at £5.50 each for spectators aged 5 and over, while under-5s enter for free (though without a reserved seat).

Tickets are available for either the morning or afternoon sessions via Ticket Source – https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/edinburgh-leisure-events

Edinburgh Leisure’s gymnastics programme offers something for everyone, from Baby Nippers for toddlers to more advanced classes for older children in disciplines like general gymnastics, trampolining, acro and display gymnastics. It’s just one of 12 sports offered across 17 venues, all designed to help children improve agility, develop new skills, and grow their confidence.

To find out more about gymnastics classes and coaching opportunities, visit Edinburgh Leisure’s website for inspiration.

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching

BodyCombat™ 100 – Master the moves, feel the movement

In a celebration of the 100^th release of BodyCombat™, Edinburgh Leisure is hosting a day dedicated to this popular workout, loved by many across the city.

Being held on 21^st September at Edinburgh Leisure’s Meadowbank Sports Centre from 9.30-11.30 am, entry is free for members or just £5 for non-members.

BodyCombat is a workout combining multiple martial arts disciplines set to music which appeals to all ages and abilities as it is incredibly adaptable to the individuals’ fitness level. One of the oldest and most popular fitness class programmes, it comes sixth in popularity behind BodyPump, RPM, Aquafit, Yoga and Pilates.

Alex Smith, Fitness Class Manager at Edinburgh Leisure said: “Last year Edinburgh Leisure hosted 400,000 BodyCombatters across the city and we want to celebrate their commitment to the programme. Even if you’re new to BodyCombat, come along and give it a try to master the moves and feel the movement.”

BodyCombat is available at Ainslie Park Leisure Centre, Drumbrae Leisure Centre, Craiglockhart Leisure Centre, Leith Victoria Swim Centre, Meadowbank Swim Centre, Royal Commonwealth Pool, Gracemount Leisure Centre, Glenogle Swim Centre, Portobello Swim Centre and Kirkliston Leisure Centre.

Spaces are limited so make sure you book your place now online or via the Edinburgh Leisure app.

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/bodycombat100

Strut Your Stuff at a Super Saturday Fitness Festival

Edinburgh Leisure is pumping up the volume with their first festival of fitness classes at Meadowbank Sports Centre on Saturday, 4^th May 2024.

The Super Saturday Fitness Class Festival will be an opportunity to try over 15 different fitness classes on a Super Saturday Workout like no other.

You can work up a sweat with the crowds at popular high-octane favourites like Bodypump and Zumba or try out some new acts like Shapes. And if you prefer life in the slower lane, their relaxation stage will be offering more peaceful Yoga and Pilates sessions.

With activities starting from 9am across four different stages, there will be something for everyone. Spaces are limited so make sure to book your classes now online or on the app.

Entry is free for Edinburgh Leisure members and just £5 per class for non-members. All classes must be pre-booked.

Edinburgh Leisure offers more classes across the city than any other provider and they have recently unlocked their Fitness Class Membership to ensure customers have access to all the classes they want, wherever they’re at, in the city or in life.

Their Fitness Class Membership now offers full access to more than 750 fitness classes a week across all their venues.

And if you sign up before 31 May 2024, you can take advantage of their No Joining Fee Offer – available for a limited time only.

To join now, https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/join

To find out more about Super Saturday and to pre-book the fitness classes on offer, visit: https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/super-saturday.

If you’re on the Edinburgh Leisure app, click the Fitness Class Bookings or the Super Saturday Tile on the Meadowbank Sports Centre’s tile.

Free football to keep the kids amused this February half-term

Looking for ways to keep the kids amused this half term, then look no further than some free football being offered by Edinburgh Leisure.

Suitable for young people aged 11 – 18 years, the football sessions will run on the main pitch at Meadowbank Sports Centre from 1:30pm – 3:00pm on Tuesday, 13^th, Thursday 15^th and Friday, 16^th February..

Participants can come along, stay active and socialise while enjoying the outdoors. Sessions don’t need to be booked – kids can simply turn up and have fun.

Wherever you’re at on the map or in life, Edinburgh Leisure is here to help the people of Edinburgh enjoy a healthier, happier, and more active life.

In the heart of communities, we’re the largest provider of sport and leisure facilities across the city. As a charitable trust we provide activities for everyone as they move through their lives.

Snooker’s Biggest Stars Set For Edinburgh

All-time greats including John Higgins, Ronnie O’Sullivan, Judd Trump and Mark Selby, as well as World Champion Luca Brecel and defending champion Gary Wilson, will be among the field when snooker’s BetVictor Scottish Open takes place in Edinburgh next month.

The third event in this season’s BetVictor Home Nations Series will run from December 11 to 17 at the Meadowbank Sports Centre in Edinburgh, as 80 players battle for the Stephen Hendry Trophy.

Tickets from just £15 are on sale now but must be booked fast – for details visit www.wst.tv/tickets

The top 16 seeds will be in action on the opening day on Monday December 11th and the match schedule is:

10am session

Gary Wilson v Elliot Slessor

Mark Selby v Sean O’Sullivan

Ding Junhui v David Grace

Jimmy Robertson v Amaan Iqbal

Not before 1pm

Ronnie O’Sullivan v Liam Graham

Mark Williams v Sam Craigie

Barry Hawkins v Pang Junxu

Ali Carter v Zehuang Long

Not before 2pm

Luca Brecel v Iulian Boiko

Shaun Murphy v Liu Hongyu

Hossein Vafaei v Daniel Wells

Jack Borwick v Ishpreet Singh Chadha

Not before 7pm

Judd Trump v Sydney Wilson

Kyren Wilson v Mostafa Dorgham

Robert Milkins v Mark Davis

Anthony McGill v Oliver Lines

Not before 8pm

John Higgins v Oliver Brown

Mark Allen v Jamie Jones

Jack Lisowski v Mohamed Ibrahim

Alfie Burden v Matthew Selt

Get tickets booked fast! For the full draw and match schedule visit www.wst.tv

Edinburgh Leisure’s Festive Gymnastics Display Tumbling Towards Success

Tickets are now on sale for Edinburgh Leisure’s annual Festive Gymnastics Display.

Now in its 17^th year, over 600 gymnasts and cheerleaders from six Edinburgh Leisure venues plus guest clubs will be coming together to delight audiences with their annual display at Meadowbank Sports Centre on Sunday, 3 December 2023.

Gymnastics Development Officer Dorothy McQueen said: “Gymnastics is a fantastic way to enjoy a healthy and active lifestyle.

“Our classes have many benefits and help children to gain strength, stamina, balance, coordination, and flexibility as well as self-confidence and the opportunity to build relationships and make friends.

“This non-competitive gymnastics’ event gives the participants within Edinburgh Leisure’s coaching programme the opportunity to showcase what they have been working so hard on throughout the year.

“In addition, it allows them to see performances from guest Clubs of all levels and different disciplines, inspiring them to reach for the stars … or maybe even that Gold, Silver or Bronze medal in the future!”

As well as featuring over 30 performances from Edinburgh Leisure gymnastics, there will also be special guest appearances from Clubs across the region, including Acrobay, Cheer Evolution, City of Edinburgh, Falkirk, Jack Kane and Kestrel.

Tickets cost £5 each and all spectators, 5 years and over, require a ticket for entry. Participating gymnasts do not require a ticket. Under 5s tickets are free but will not have an allocated seat.

Tickets are available for either the morning or afternoon session and can be bought from Ticket Source. https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/edinburgh-leisure-events

Edinburgh Leisure’s Gymnastics programme offers classes for the Under 5s including Baby Nippers from Walking to 18 months, Gym Nippers and Gym & Jump from 18 months- 5 years and then General Gymnastics, Display Gymnastics and Trampolining for Primary 1 upwards. Gymnastics is just one of the 12 sports coached across 17 venues in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Leisure’s coaching programme helps children to develop new skills, improve their agility and grow confidence.

For more information on gymnastics classes and other coaching opportunities at Edinburgh Leisure, get inspired by visiting:

https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/activities/coaching

Try before you buy – Meadowbank Open Day

Edinburgh Leisure’s state-of-the-art and newest venue, Meadowbank Sports Centre is hosting an Open Day on Sunday, 19 November to entice the people of Edinburgh to try before they buy.

Opened in July 2022, it will be an opportunity for people to try out the range of facilities at this £47m venue, and encourage customers, old and new to try something different, including the racquet and track facilities.

The programme on offer will include the gym, gym-based and fitness classes. Customer can also try racquet sports including badminton, table tennis, squash, and the newest ‘kid’ on the block, Pickleball, which is fast growing a big following. And if running is your thing, there will be a chance to try the indoor and outdoor running tracks. The Café Refresh will be open from 8.30 am – 5 pm for a range of drinks and snacks.

Picture – Chris Watt Photography 07887554193 info@chriswatt.com www.chriswatt.com

Josh Anderson, Operations Manager at Meadowbank Sports Centre said: “Meadowbank Sports Centre has been a sporting and social hub for so many people in the Edinburgh area over the years. But we’re conscious that a lot of people still haven’t paid us a visit to our incredible £47m refurbishment.

“Hence why we are opening our doors and hosting an Open Day, which will be a great opportunity for existing adult members to perhaps try something new, such as the track and racquet facilities and for potential new members to come and try for free before they buy and see just how great our facilities are.

“And as an added incentive for new members, there will be an opportunity to sign up for an adult Meadowbank Gym or Fitness Class membership on the day at the Meadowbank reception with a £0 joining fee.”

The new Meadowbank has much to offer the local community and communities throughout Edinburgh and includes the following facilities:

An outdoor eight-lane athletics track with a 499-seat stand and outdoor throwing and jumps area.
A 60m six-lane indoor athletics track and jumps space.
Two multi-sport halls with fixed and moveable spectator seating
A hall for dance and other events, including hosting bouncy castle birthday parties.
Two fitness studios (capacity – 30 each), which include world-renowned Les Mills programme of classes, smart tech bars and weights.
- A fitness class timetable with 77 classes
A Cycle Studio (capacity – 30) with Life Fitness IC7 bikes and ICG myride and Les Mills RPM classes
A gym with Life Fitness equipment, dumbbells up to 50kg, Watt bikes, SkiErg, row and Cybex SPARC machines (capacity – 90)
- Combined bumped plates weighs in the gym – 2927.5kg
- Combined dumbbell weight in the gym – 1,918kg
- 40+ pieces of resistance and free weights equipment
Two squash courts
A purpose-built dojo for martial arts
A boxing gym
Two 3G (synthetic) pitches, including one with a 499-seat stand.
A hospitality Suite and event-hosting facilities
Cafe and meeting rooms

To get involved in Meadowbank Sports Centre Open Day, gym sessions do not need to be booked but fitness and gym-based classes, and racquet sports, and use of the track need to be booked.

The activities are now available to book online or via the Edinburgh Leisure app.

Find out more – https://www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/venues/meadowbank-sports-centre/open-day