Tag: Sport

Go For Gold mini games challenge

EDINBURGH LEISURE – GO FOR GOLD

Tennis fever may be over but as the world hots up for the next big sporting occasion, Paris 2024, Edinburgh Leisure is encouraging kids to go for gold this summer with their own mini-games challenge.

Featuring a variety of kids and family summer activities including AquaDash, Clip n’ Climb, soft play, Come & Try Coaching sessions, Holiday Camp & Coaching programme, racquet sports and more, kids are being encouraged to try as many activities as possible to complete a Game Card, which will be entered into a prize draw for some amazing prizes.

Go for Gold Game cards can be picked up from any participating Edinburgh Leisure venue.  Each game card has a 5 x 5 grid of activities.  Once an activity is completed, children will receive a bespoke gold sticker to fill their card. After completing at least one activity from each column, the finished card can be submitted at any participating venue to enter a prize draw. 

The prize draw will take place during the week commencing 19 August.

*There will be three winners who can choose from a choice of:

  • Soft play membership for one month for up to 2 children
  • Clip ‘n Climb for 2 children or 1 adult and 1 child
  • Aquadash for 2 
  • 1-1 35-minute dive lesson with European Junior Athlete

Angela McGowan, Edinburgh Leisure’s Coaching Programme Manager said: “Few of us will ever be Olympians, but we know that keeping active is good for everyone and our Go For Gold summer mini games is Edinburgh Leisure’s way of encouraging kids to get the active habit in a fun and sociable way during the summer holidays, while encouraging kids to achieve their own medal.”

The Go For Gold promotion will run at most Edinburgh Leisure venues from 15 July – 11 August 2024.

*Terms and conditions apply – check Edinburgh Leisure website for more information. www.edinburghleisure.co.uk/go-for-gold*

Pubs to stay open late as England bid to ‘bring football home’

Pub and bar licensing hours extended tonight after England reach the final of the UEFA European Football Championship

TONIGHT (Sunday 14 July), pubs and bars across England and Wales can keep their doors open until 1am as England bid to become champions of Europe, Home Secretary Yvette Cooper has confirmed.

Following the Three Lions’ emphatic (Eh? – Never a penalty! – Ed.) semi-final win on Wednesday night, the team is set to go head to head with Spain in the final of the 2024 UEFA European Football Championship.

The heavyweight clash will kick off at 8pm, with fans up and down the country coming together to show their support.

Pub licensing hours can be relaxed to mark occasions of “exceptional national significance”, meaning pubs and bars will be able to stay open for an extra 2 hours tonight.

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper said: “We’re so proud of Gareth Southgate and the England team. It’s right that we can all come together tomorrow to enjoy the match and—do we dare to dream?!—hopefully celebrate an England victory.

“I want to pay special thanks to the police officers and first responders who will be working across communities to keep us safe.

“I look forward to getting behind all our brilliant players, who bring so much pride to our country, and I want to wish the team the best of luck. Let’s bring it home.”

As well as bringing fans together for longer, tomorrow night’s extension is due to be a welcomed boost to the hospitality industry.

Emma McClarkin, Chief Executive of the British Beer and Pub Association, said: “As with the semi-finals, pubs will be licensed to stay open until 1am on Sunday night and thanks to the Home Office for making the changes to the licensing rules for allowing this to happen. 

“The changes give fans even more time to enjoy the game, support our pubs and hopefully celebrate football finally coming home. 

“Fans have shown us resoundingly this tournament that there is no better place to watch our teams and soak up the atmosphere than the great British pub. This Sunday the BBPA urges everyone to get down their local, support our pubs and get behind the boys. Come on England!”

UK Hospitality Chief Executive Kate Nicholls said: “The Euros have provided a huge boost for hospitality businesses this summer, as fans pack pubs, bars and fan zones to come together and cheer on the home nations.

The extended licensing hours for the final will allow venues and fans to take advantage of the occasion, and hopefully celebrate an historic England win.”

IN THE INTEREST OF BALANCE IT’S ONLY FAIR TO SAY THAT NOT EVERYONE IN THE BRITISH ISLES IS LOOKING FORWARD TO ‘AN HISTORIC ENGLAND WIN’:

MAY the best – and not just the luckiest – team win tonight! – Ed.

Sprint World Orienteering Championships take centre stage in Edinburgh

THREE Scottish athletes will proudly pull on their Great Britain vests later this week as they represent their country at the Sprint World Orienteering Championships (www.woc2024.org), taking place in Edinburgh from 12-16 July.

Brother and sister Peter and Grace Molloy from Linlithgow and Freddie Carcas from Edinburgh will form a GB team of 10 athletes, as they take part in five days racing in the Capital.

Often thought of as a countryside sport, WOC 2024 will be staged in the intricate urban terrain Edinburgh has to offer, with the capital’s iconic landmarks providing the perfect backdrop for the elite courses.

The event is yet another opportunity for the public to watch elite sport in the capital – but this time for free. Fans will be able to watch the world’s best orienteering athletes tackle challenging routes which weave through the city’s historical and cultural attractions while enjoying a fun day out with the family.

There are free family activities are on offer throughout the week, including orienteering mazes, fun races and all the action on live screens. The orienteering maze and big screen will feature in Princes Street Garden on Friday (12 July), followed by fun races for kids and adults alike at The Meadows, as well as another orienteering maze, from Saturday 13 July until Monday 15 July.

With Great Britain finishing second in the medal table at the last Sprint World Orienteering Championships in Denmark in 2022, the host nation will be looking to go one better and top the table.

Grace Molloy from Linlithgow who is in contention for one of the top places explained how she is feeling about competing in front her home crowd: “I’m excited to race in a city as iconic as Edinburgh, especially as it is 30 minutes from my home, and I’m looking forward to truly challenging the best athletes in the world.

“This is the first WOC where I’ve had the speed to match the top women and I’m hoping to achieve top 10 positions in the individual races and a medal in the relay.”

The five-day orienteering festival also features amateur races for all ages and levels, with competitors as young as 10 and some in their 80s. The ‘WOC Tour’ will allow competitors, from those relatively new to the sport up to experienced recreational athletes, to experience the best of urban orienteering.

The first elite races will be the Individual Sprint taking place in Leith on the morning of Friday 12th July, with finals in the afternoon finishing in Princes Street Gardens. The action continues on Sunday 14th July at Heriot Watt University with the Team Sprint Relay.

On Tuesday 16th July the Knockout Sprint qualifications take place at Wester Hailes with the finals finishing on St John Street in Central Edinburgh.

Find out more about WOC 2024 and the WOC Tour. 

WOC 2024 will be broadcast on Eurovision Sport (www.eurovisionsport.com), the European Broadcasting Union (IBU)’s new free streaming platform and on the IOF YouTube channel.

Euro 2024: Scotland fans backing Germany and ENGLAND to win following Hungary exit

Scotland’s European Championships are officially over following a heart-breaking 100th minute defeat at the hands of Hungary.

But while 200,000 Scottish fans will be feeling the hangover of an underwhelming tournament, Euro 2024 continues in Germany and the question is, who are they supporting as their second team for the remainder of the competition?

Betway conducted data through social media tool Brandwatch to determine which teams remaining have received the most positive comments online since Euro 2024 started.

The positive sentimental data can reveal the following for fans in Scotland:

  • Hosts Germany have 4,792 positive comments, putting them in first place.
  • Arch-rivals England are in second place with 4,354.
  • France, Ukraine and Spain complete the top five while Hungary, who knocked Scotland out, are in sixth spot.

The top 10 most popular teams for Euro 2024 in Scotland are as follows:

RankTeamPositive Sentimental Data
1Germany4,792
2England4,354
3France1,509
4Ukraine1,345
5Spain765
6Hungary762
7Portugal740
8Switzerland720
9Italy619
10Denmark419

ENGLAND? Shurely shome mistake! It’s Austria for me! – Ed.

Scotland: Time for glory?

SCOTS SHOOT FOR THE STARS IN SUNDAY SHOWDOWN

It all comes down to this … 

After a dramatic draw against Switzerland, Scotland go in to tonight’s match against Hungary in Stuttgart knowing that a win is needed if Steve Clarke’s side are to have a chance of making history by progressing to the knock-out stages of a major tournament for the first time ever. 

After the bitter disappointment in Munich in the opener against Germany, Scotland were much-improved in an entertaining draw against the Swiss. 

Scott McTominay broke the deadlock, smashing home from the edge of the box via a deflection, after a swift counter-attack, before Xherdan Shaqiri curled home a stunning equaliser.

Scotland returned to their picturesque base in the Bavarian Alps on Thursday, where Steve Clarke’s squad recovered from the exertions of Wednesday night and prepared for their crucial final match of Group A.

Team news:

Scotland have suffered a blow with Kieran Tierney – who was stretchered off on Wednesday night – being ruled out of EURO 2024 through injury. 

Ryan Porteous also remains unavailable as he serves the second game of his suspension, while Ryan Jack’s fitness is being monitored as well. 

Scotland assistant coach John Carver addressed the media on Friday in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and issued the following words of encouragement to his players: “Let’s see how the game develops and plays out but if we do it we will be the first team to do it and people will remember the team to do it for the first time.

“That’s what they have to think about in the back of their minds. These guys have got us to this tournament and we deserve to be there.

“They have put all the work and effort in to get us to where we are – why can’t we go one step further and take it to that next level? Because that’s what we want, we all want that and there is no reason why we can’t after what we saw a couple of days ago.”

The assistant coach also reflected on the performance of the Tartan Army in Cologne and the rousing rendition of the anthem, in particular, adding: “When I listened to Flower of Scotland – and I am getting a little emotional here – it was the loudest I have ever heard.

“It brought a lump to my throat. If that can’t inspire these guys after that they did the other then …

“We might get beat because the opposition is better than us but it won’t be for the want of trying.”

Defender Hendry also spoke to the press, looking back on Wednesday night and looking forward to the crunch clash against Hungary. He said “It was an action-packed evening, a very emotional evening.

“We obviously felt we had to put in a performance and I think we did that. Obviously a massive contrast and hopefully we can continue this momentum.

“It felt good, we felt we gave a bit of justice in the performance and hopefully we made the county a bit more proud than they felt after the evening against Germany.

“There is a lot to look forward to now. Obviously it is in our hands and it is something to really relish.”

“The squad is aware that have never got out of a group before so this squad is hungry to change that. The squad is determined to make history on Sunday against Hungary.”

Heading to the game?

For the supporters who are travelling to the Stuttgart Arena, have a look at UEFA’s guide to Stuttgart for advice on travel, getting to the stadium and things to do in the host city. (If you’re reading this in Germany, hopefully you’re in Stuttgart already! – Ed.)

Where to watch

The match will be broadcast live on BBC One with coverage starting at 7pm in the UK. Gabby Logan will be presenting, with punditry from David Moyes, Alan Shearer and Rachel Corsie.

GMB reveals almost 1,000 public football pitches lost by cash-strapped councils

On the eve of the European Championships, GMB can reveal almost 1,000 public football pitches have been lost in the UK since 2010.

As England and Scotland get ready to kick off their campaigns in Germany, new figures show there are 846 fewer local authority owned or operated football pitches today [based on the latest figures available] than there were in 2009/10.

Councils said that a further 80 pitches had also been closed – meaning at least 926 pitches have gone.

The worst hit part of the UK was Scotland, which lost a massive 271 pitches during that period.

All the other worst hit areas were all in Northern England and Wales.

The figures come from a Freedom of Information request made by GMB to local authorities in the UK and we’re revealed at GMB’s annual conference, which concludes in Bournemouth today [Thursday].

Rachel Harrison, GMB National Secretary, said: “The England and Scotland men’s teams are about to begin their European Championship campaigns, with the hopes of the two nations resting on their shoulders.

“Yet before a ball has even been kicked, the next generation of footballers have already lost.

“Losing almost 1,000 council football pitches could crush grass roots football in the UK and is yet another deeply depressing legacy of the Conservative’s austerity mission.”

Scottish Government representation at Euro 2024

First Minister to attend opening match between Scotland and Germany

First Minister John Swinney will join fans in Germany and at home cheering on the Scotland Men’s National Football Team in their first match of the tournament.

Scottish Ministers will attend Scotland’s three group stage matches of the UEFA European Football Championship.

The First Minister will attend the opening game with hosts Germany in Munich on Friday and attend the official opening ceremony of the UEFA Fan Zone in the Olympic Park stadium in Munich alongside the Lord Provost of Edinburgh and Mayor of Munich.

First Minister John Swinney said: “Football has a marvellous way of bringing people together, of all ages, of all nationalities, both women and men and it is a privilege to be heading to Munich to join them in supporting our national team and experiencing the warm hospitality of our German hosts.

“The tournament has an even more profound meaning for Scots this year as not only has our national team made it to the finals, but this year also marks the 70th anniversary of the twinning of the cities of Edinburgh and Munich.

“Celebrating the diversity within our democracies through sport strengthens our societies and improves our resilience as nations.

“I am honoured to be able to attend the opening game between Scotland and Germany and I wish our national team, led by Steve Clarke, the best of luck but most importantly I hope all of our travelling fans have a thoroughly good time.”

Sport Minister Maree Todd and Culture Secretary Angus Robertson will also attend Scotland matches with Switzerland and Hungary respectively.

They will each undertake a series of engagements in Cologne and Stuttgart focussing on culture and sport, sports diplomacy and Scottish-German relations as well as discussing opportunities for Scotland and Germany to collaborate more closely on energy research. 

Scotland Football Team at European Championships | Scottish FA

UEFA EURO 2024 | UEFA.co

Try Orienteering

Come and try some orienteering with us in some of our lovely Edinburgh parks in June. It is free, fun and family-friendly and everyone is welcome to give it a go.

With the Sprint World Orienteering Championships 2024 Scotland in Edinburgh in July you can get a taster of the sport for yourselves.

Run or walk, on your own or with family or friends – It’s up to you!

Local walking rugby clubs train with Scottish stars in once in a lifetime opportunity

  • Special event sees walking rugby clubs from across Scotland come together to play at the home of Edinburgh Rugby
  • Ex Scotland caps Jim Hamilton and Tim Visser played alongside six local teams
  • Former Edinburgh and Scotland winger, Tim Visser said: “It’s harder than it looks!”

Scottish Building Society hosted a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity for walking rugby teams across Scotland to play alongside Scottish rugby legends.

The seven-team event saw clubs from across Scotland come together to play a tournament celebrating rugby and how walking rugby allows everyone to keep fit regardless of their age or ability.

A team of Edinburgh Rugby Legends competed alongside, Ayr RFC, BATs, Kelso, Midlothian Uncoachables, Midlothian Unpickables and Murrayfield Wanderers in a celebration of rugby.

The Edinburgh Rugby legends team had past players such as Dave Denton, Andrew Easson, James King, Jim Hamilton, Lewis Niven, Conan Sharman, Hugo Southwell, Steven Turnbull, Tim Visser all playing alongside local teams from across Scotland.

Walking Rugby follows a similar format to traditional rugby except there is no sprinting, meaning passing accuracy and positioning are key.

It is a more accessible game as tackling is much lesser part of the game and requires greater tactical knowledge. The more social format of the game is growing in popularity because of its accessibility and social nature which is bringing people together from all backgrounds, age and abilities.

The festival was held on the pitches outside of BT Murrayfield, before Edinburgh’s home victory against Zebre.

“I loved that. It was great fun,” said Jim Hamilton, the former Edinburgh Rugby second-row turned podcaster and broadcaster.

“We don’t do it enough and everyone says the same thing. I joked with Hugo Southwell that we’ll do it again in ten years’ time and it’s one of those that you want to be out with your mates catching up and enjoying a laugh together.”

Walking rugby has found an audience of former and new to rugby players as a way to come together and keep fit, especially for older fans.

“It’s harder than it looks,” said former Edinburgh Rugby wing Tim Visser. “I was definitely out of breath a couple of times but I enjoyed it.”

Paul Denton, CEO, Scottish Building Society said: “Our sponsorship with Edinburgh Rugby is far more than the professional players on the pitch. It’s a great platform to work together on amazing community programs, like this Walking Rugby tournament, which makes a real difference to those who take part.

“Walking rugby is so important in supporting people to keep active and helping to get them out the house, whilst making a few friends along the way. It was great to meet the teams, and there was a real spirit of rugby, teamwork and friendship, which was brilliant to see.

“Scottish Building Society was proud to be a part of it. Walking rugby isn’t just about the actual game, it’s about embracing inclusivity, being sociable and building connections through a shared love of the sport.”

Edinburgh Cup under starter’s orders at Musselburgh

Musselburgh Racecourse is gearing up for one of its biggest events of the year, The Edinburgh Cup, sponsored by Edinburgh Gin, on Saturday 1 June.

With more than £150,000 in total prize money up for grabs across seven races, in addition to the highly anticipated £50,000 The Edinburgh Cup Handicap Stakes feature race over 1m 1 furlong, racegoers can look forward to the seven furlong £40,000 The Edinburgh Gin Queen of Scots Listed Handicap.

With top class action on the turf guaranteed, the Edinburgh Cup is also a social event where guests are encouraged to dress to impress, and a fashion competition will celebrate the most stylish racegoers.

Following the final race (provisionally 5.20pm), Forth One favourite Boogie in the Morning will host the After-Racing Party, which includes a surprise guest appearance.

Aisling Johnston, Head of Marketing and Business Development at Musselburgh Racecourse, said: “The Edinburgh Cup sponsored by Edinburgh Gin is undoubtedly one of our premier racedays, attracting strong crowds eager to soak up the party atmosphere and excitement of the races, and this has been confirmed by very positive ticket sales which points to an expected record attendance.”

Musselburgh Racecourse is also partnering with The Scottish Open golf tournament, held at North Berwick’s The Renaissance Club from 11-14 July, to celebrate another prominent East Lothian sporting event, and on-course activations and a competition is planned.

And for racing fans who want to catch the famous Epsom Derby, the 4.30pm race will be shown on screens throughout the racecourse.

Hospitality packages are already sold out, but a limited number of Edinburgh Gin Lawn experiences are still available. These exclusive packages, bookable in multiples of four, offer dedicated tables and chairs with parasols close to the parade ring action, an Ibiza chill vibe with a private DJ, and access to the Edinburgh Gin bar.

To make the day even more convenient and accessible, a special bus service will operate, offering a £10 return fare from Waterloo Place in Edinburgh departing at 11.15am and returning from the racecourse at 6pm.

“The Edinburgh Cup promises to be a day filled with excitement, fashion, and entertainment, and we would urge those still to obtain tickets not to leave it too late,” added Aisling Johnston.

Book your raceday ticket before midnight on the 31 May and save £5 per person.

For more information and to secure your Edinburgh Gin Lawn experience, visit the Musselburgh Racecourse website www.musselburgh-racecourse.co.uk