A MARATHON OF FUN AT WIMBORNE’S FIRST FESTIVAL OF SPORT AND ACTIVE LEISURE

Wimborne’s first ever Festival of Sport and Active Leisure came under starters orders on Sunday 19 April, attracting an estimated 600 visitors for a full day of free, family-friendly outdoor activities. As part of the Wimborne Town of Culture programme, the festival showcased the area’s thriving sporting community and encouraged residents of all ages to get active and try something new.
More than 16 local sport groups and businesses took part, offering hands-on sessions ranging from a climbing wall, rugby and cricket to football, canoeing and a host of other activities.

A major highlight for families was the festival stamp card challenge, designed to inspire children to explore as many sports as possible. Around 300 children completed their card, collecting stamps for each activity they tried. Those who filled all eight spaces proudly received a certificate to mark their achievement.

Visitors praised the festival’s atmosphere and variety. One attendee said: “My family and Iabsolutely loved the festival today. We were there for the whole day. Thank you for organising a brilliant day.” Another highlighted the “excellent variety of different sports and activities.”

Adding to the excitement, Wimborne Athletics Club ran a 1km relay continuously throughout the day, collectively completing the full distance of a marathon.

Many of the participating clubs commented on how well looked after they were by the organisers and loved the opportunity to work together with fellow sporting clubs and groups. All said they would love to do another sporting festival in the town.

The Festival of Sport and Leisure was organised by the Town of Culture Sport and Active Leisure Forum and proudly sponsored by Wimborne Town of Culture, Wimborne BID, and Wimborne Rotary. Their support together with that from Radio Wimborne ensured the event remained free, inclusive and accessible to the whole community.

The Festival of Sport and Active Leisure forms part of a year-long programme celebrating Wimborne’s cultural identity, encouraging residents to discover local clubs, get active and enjoy the town’s vibrant community spirit.