13/10/2005

Local News

Inspiration for young Olympians

James Cracknell puts pupils through their paces as part of a campaign to promote healthier lifestyle

James, a member of McDonald’s Team Sport, visited his former school, Pyrford C of E Primary, to take part in a special activity with pupils. The star led a session to inspire pupils to be active for 60 minutes each day, as recommended by the government’s chief medical officer.
The visit was part of a nationwide tour of schools by McDonald’s Team Sport to help drive home the “active for 60 minutes each day” message and motivate children to lead balanced lifestyles.
The campaign is backed by the British Olympic Association.
James said: “I am really excited to be part of this initiative and the role we can play in getting children to understand the connection between what they eat and the activity they do.
“Mums and dads know all too well it can be challenging to prise youngsters away from distractions like the television so if we can make exercise easy and fun, we are halfway to achieving that.”
Irene Smith, headteacher of the school, said: “It’s great that James has come back to his old school to share some of his sporting stories and tips for staying active with the children.
“Who knows, he may even inspire one of our pupils to follow in his footsteps to Olympic gold in London.

First printed in: Byfleet News and Mail