The Oar-some visit enjoyed by our Colchester Senior U’s group – on a wet and windy Thursday morning.
We were recently very fortunate to be paid a visit, at Shrub End Community and Sports Centre, by double Olympic gold medallist James Cracknell OBE, for one of our Senior U’s Sport and Social sessions. James, who was appointed OBE in the 2005 New Year Honours List for his “services to sport”, attended with David Linghorn-Baker (Agent for James Cracknell), and immediately made himself at home, making cups of tea for our participants and joining the conversations.
James is currently familiarising himself with the Colchester Community, and his, and David’s interest in the health and lifestyle provisions in the area were clear to see. After some time chatting and watching the active sessions that our Senior U’s were taking part in, James threw himself into a few matches of Table Tennis and Target Ball and seemed to really enjoy the competitive but fun element.
In the days following the visit we received this feedback from David,
“We were both taken back by the obvious commitment and enthusiasm your team at the Shrub End Community Sports Centre have for improving health and wellbeing of many ages groups across Colchester. As a public health practitioner myself, I truly can see the huge benefits your work in the community has on improving the active lifestyles of Colchester’s residents and students.”
Additionally, James Cracknell OBE said "Seeing the community seniors felt more like visiting a sports team. The atmosphere was relaxed and great fun and when the games started. I went there to watch but didn't need to be asked twice to join in! They are a great bunch of men and women."
It was an absolute privilege to have an Olympian spend some time with us at the Community Foundation and to receive such positive feedback on a session that we care greatly about, and we hope to be able to involve James in some of our future Community projects.
