Sign up now for the Victorian ‘Grand Olympic Festival’, 13 June
146 years ago, the citizens of Leicester staged their own Olympic games in the grounds of the Leicestershire and Rutland Lunatic Asylum. Today, the asylum is the Fielding Johnson Building and the grounds are the University campus and Queen Elizabeth I and Wyggeston College. On Wednesday 13 June we will recreate those forgotten Victorian Olympics on the College rugby pitch.
Competition is open to all University of Leicester students – and staff as well. Enthusiasm is more important that sporting prowess as this is a showcase event (although there will be small prizes) and modern inventions like spiked running shoes are strictly forbidden. Or if you would prefer something less exhausting, we are also looking for stewards to help with the on-the-day organisation. Please contact Kerry Wheeler kew22@le.ac.uk if you would like to take part or help in any way.
Or just come along as a spectator. Anyone who can supply their own Victorian costume will be particularly welcome!
The planned events, a mixture of old and new, are:
|
100 yards dash High jump 200 yards hurdles Long jump Two miles walking race |
Putting the stone (shotput) Throwing the cricket ball Tug o’war Paralympic volleyball Paralympic goalball |
Full details of the day, which is a collaboration between our Sports Division and the Students' Union will be posted nearer the time.
