This was an important part of our bid in Singapore four years ago and being in Delhi would allow me to see how well we’re getting on with our international legacy programme.
We spent a few hours at a community sports event. Street children from Delhi take part in a sports day every month and I was lucky enough to be able to witness one. Over 400 children, 50 coaches, community leaders and volunteers help ensure that the children have a fantastic day taking part in a wide range of sport and play activities.
During the afternoon I coached a relay session, judged a three-legged race, witnessed girls pushing themselves in the potatoe-sack battle and played cricket with some really talented children. I think this is the first time I have been bowled out by a 15-year-old!
Seeing these children play in such a safe and welcoming environment and witnessing how much they were enjoying themselves was a truly inspiring moment for me. Our commitment in Singapore was that we would inspire the youth around the world to choose sport. And seeing this project yesterday has really shown me that our vision is becoming a reality.
I can see that taking part in these play and sport opportunities through International Inspiration is really inspiring these children and helping them change their lives. Prior to sport entering their lives, these children would be out on the streets with little future ahead of them.
All children should have the right to benefit from sport and play activities. Now, thanks to International Inspiration and all the partners helping deliver this programme, especially the Indian government, this is becoming a reality for millions of children in India.
