Such a rewarding moment

What is a Rotary Moment? - a time when you realise being a Rotarian is so rewarding. Helping at the Rotary Disability Games was just such an experience.

When we arrived at 8.30am, excited participants were already beginning to flow into the Sports Hall at the Stamford Endowed School. People of all ages, some in wheelchairs, with their carers were gathering for a very special day.

Team managers settled them at their tables in eager readiness for the day to unfold. It was time to don the souvenir t-shirt, kindly sponsored by Buckles Solicitors.

Awaiting the 250 competitors were many opportunities to demonstrate their skills in the art of boccia, new age kurling, darts, shooting,

swimming or weightlifting, or simply try their hand at a new sport. For those in wheelchairs there were the dash and slalom events to look forward to at the end of the day.

At midday everyone reassembled to enjoy lunch. Sandwiches, cake, crisps, fruit and bottled water, all kindly provided by Waitrose. It was then time to join in the fun once again. The next time they would congregate would be to meet our very personable Rotary District Governor Tim Tucker, receive their medals and trophies and pose for a photograph.

St Ives Rotary arranged for the Heron Club to participate. Jo Lloyd and her brilliant gang of helpers entered 23 club members into the events. Rotarians from the club were on hand all day, both in support of the Heron Club, and helping with the events. Sadly, we did not have a Peterborough team this year but, hopefully, will take advantage of Stamford as a local venue for the final time next year.

At the end of the day: Competitors wreathed in smiles, every single person wearing a medal and those coming first in their category clutching a shiny gold cup. Each having had a great day out and, for many, enjoying fresh challenges and experiences.

A chance for them to realise their potential and achieve individual goals and milestones.

Organisers, team managers, helpers thrilled to have been involved in this fantastic event. Possibly exhausted at the end of a long day but delighted to have made a difference for so many.

Huge thanks go to the sponsors and the Stamford Endowed Schools for, once again, offering Rotary use of their superb facilities.