On June 7, LLAF together with the FULLGAZZ Children’s and Youth Athletics Academy organized the Kids’ Athletics Games at the capital’s Vingis Park Stadium. More than 130 children and young people from Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipėda, Šiauliai, Panevėžys, Prienai and Kybartai joined them, and they were accompanied by over 30 coaches and volunteers.

The participants of the Games tried various branches of athletics – running, long jump and high jump, and throws. Although the little athletes received competition numbers and participated in the event as if they were in a real competition, the most important thing was to show the children the beauty of sports. This event was about new acquaintances, friendships, teamwork, courage to test yourself and a good mood.

There were no losers here – all participants went home with medals, diplomas and sports bags specially designed for the Games. It is expected that these Games will become an invaluable experience for the little ones and an encouragement to stay in the sport.

The second such Games will take place on November 28, also in Vilnius. Before that, on September 26-27, the participants of the Kids’ Athletics program – athletics coaches and physical education teachers – will gather for another weekend training (the first ones took place on May 2-3).

Kids’ Athletics is a program in more than 150 countries that develops children’s running, jumping and throwing skills through games. The essence of the program is simplicity, inclusion and the joy of movement for every child.

Photo by Jaroslav Mechkovsky.