Children taking part in the Manx Youth Games may develop a lifelong love of sport, with all the health and social benefits that follow.

That’s the hope of Tim Crookall MHK, Minister for Education and Children, as he looks ahead to the 14th Games, taking place on Saturday 16th May.

More than 1,000 children aged four to 14 will take part in the Manx Sport and Recreation-organised event after enjoying in-school training sessions since January.

The Minister said: ‘The Strategy for Sport 2014-2024 aims to increase levels of physical activity among the young for the long-term good of their health and, ultimately, the benefit of the economy.

‘Not all children get the chance to try out different sports and find one they enjoy, so this initiative, run by Manx Sport and Recreation and generously supported by HSBC Bank in the Isle of Man, is a great introduction to sport for many.

‘The hope is that they will enjoy a wonderful day and carry on participating at school or at club level and into adulthood.

‘Even if they don’t continue with a sport, the Games will hopefully enthuse children about how fun it can be staying physically active,’ said the Minister, who will officially open the event.

Kevin Cartledge, Senior Manager, HSBC Isle of Man commented: ‘HSBC has supported the Manx Youth Games since 2002 through our global community investment programme, which focuses primarily on education and the environment. We are delighted to continue to support the games, which, over the years, have seen thousands of children taking part in a number of sporting disciplines.

‘The commitment and dedication of all the sports’ coordinators, coaches and volunteers who are involved in making this such a worthwhile initiative is outstanding. It is a privilege for HSBC to be involved with the Youth Games and help with the continued community development on the Island.’

The Manx Youth Games feature 12 sports – athletics, badminton, basketball, cricket, hockey, girls’ football, crown green bowls, netball, table tennis, tag rugby, swimming and disability football.

Most of the action is centred around the National Sports Centre, with cricket at Cronkbourne Cricket Club, netball at St Ninian’s Lower School and tag rugby at Douglas Rugby Club.

The Games begin at 10am with a parade of teams, in their regional colours – North, South, West, Douglas North and Douglas South – around the NSC track and a lively warm-up.

There will be parking at the Bowl but not at the NSC and families are encouraged to walk or take public transport of car-share to ease congestion around the venue.

For more information on the Manx Youth Games, visit www.gov.im/manxyouthgames.

Photo - Last year’s Manx Youth Games.