Another International Children’s Games has ended, and again I am left in awe of this event and its capacity to bring out the best in young people in every way.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Lake Macquarie was the only Australian city represented, and our young athletes proved to be amazing ambassadors, in and outside of the sporting arena.
The opening ceremony was spectacular and Team Lake Mac was the first called in to the ground – bearing their team mascot, a giant kangaroo that has been to all the Games in which our City has been represented.
The competition was very stiff, and while there were no medals for our team this year, most of the athletes rose to the occasion by posting personal best performances, spurred on by the atmosphere and the inspiration of representing their city and country against competitors from all over the world. There was plenty to cheer about from the sideline. Travis Peterson went within a whisker of a medal, finishing fifth in the boys’ shotput, others made finals, and all competitors put in a great effort.
It was an amazing experience, made all the better for the children and their support group of parents by the fact they had the chance to explore the host city of Jerusalem and soak in its history.
I enjoyed exploring Jerusalem as well, both as a sightseer and in my capacity as part of three-person study group from Council looking at initiatives under way in leading global smart cities.