Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1509678
maltatoday | SUNDAY • 15 OCTOBER 2023 9 SPORT The European Week of Sport 2023 came to an end with a very successful and positive outcome THE European Week of Sport took place across our country with various events as part of the European Union's #BeAc- tive campaign, promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. It aimed to raise awareness about the importance of sports and ac- tive living for community health and well-being. #BeActive en- couraged sports for everyone, regardless of age, with the goal of healthier and happier citi- zens. European Week of Sport 2023, built on last year's success, featured events in 40 countries, diverse activities, contests, and millions of enthusiastic partici- pants. The focus this year was on in- volvement, inclusion, and inno- vation, reflecting contemporary societal changes. This year's Eu- ropean Week of Sport focused on various themes, including schools, workplaces, fitness centres, sports organizations, and community engagement through local governments and outdoor activities. In this regard, SportMalta organized two main events: the #BeActive Night, was held on Saturday 23rd Septem- ber at 18:30 at the Cottonera Sports Complex, emphasized fitness as the primary focus. The event commenced with a walk from Kalkara, followed by a fitness challenge with over 300 registered athletes, fitness ses- sions for the public, and a water polo tournament in an Olym- pic-sized pool. The Main National Event, was held on Sunday afternoon at the Marsa Sports Grounds, trans- formed the grounds into a sports village featuring more than 20 different sporting disciplines. It was a fun activity for all those who attended to watch and take part in a different sport. This event included a variety of disciplines, from athletics, skateboarding, basketball 3×3, badminton, gymnastics, netball, judo, rugby, volleyball, billiard, table tennis and much more. Special Olympics also organised various sports for their mem- ber athletes, while a football tournament was also organised throughout the day. Recognizing that workplaces, schools, and homes have be- come places where people spent a significant portion of their time, SportMalta seized the opportunity to organize activi- ties in these environments and brainstormed ideas on how in- dividuals could remain active in such settings. To this end, SportMalta hosted various team-building physical activities in workplaces and the SportMalta National Schools Sports Day on October 13th, where schools across the nation are invited to participate. For a comprehensive list of all events happening during the European Week of Sport of this year, one could visit the website at sportmalta.mt Everyone was invited to join in any of these events as an opportunity to kick- start or expand their physical ac- tivity journey. SportMalta is promoting sport and physical activity through- out the year and from early ages through the #BeActive campaigns. The aim is to raise awareness within society re- garding the importance of phys- ical activity and participation in sports. The European Com- mission aims for the European Week of Sport to promote more action in favour of physical ac- tivity. Last Saturday, on September 30th, SportMalta hosted a Gym Free Open Day at four differ- ent locations across Malta. The event took place at Kirkop Gym, Tal-Qroqq Gym, Sirens Gym, and Birzebbuga Gym. This event was part of the European Week of Sport of this year. Starting at 12 pm and lasting throughout the day, the event welcomed people of all ages to enjoy a day of fitness and fun. During the Gym Free Open Day, participants had the oppor- tunity to explore various work- outs and fitness equipment at these gyms, all free of charge. To make the experience even better, SportMalta generously provid- ed a complimentary #BeActive towel to everyone who attended. This thoughtful gesture ensured that participants could stay fresh and comfortable as they engaged in the different activities and ex- ercises. The Gym Free Open Day was a fantastic initiative that encour- aged people to be active and stay healthy while promoting the European Week of Sport. It brought communities together, allowing them to discover the benefits of regular exercise and the wonderful facilities available at these gyms across Malta. In addition to the Gym Free Open Day, SportMalta organized a Fitness Challenge Staff Event as part of the European Week of Sport 2023. The event took place on September 29th at the Cot- tonera Sports Complex. It was a fantastic opportunity to promote a healthy lifestyle and enjoy some friendly competition. The Fitness Challenge was an exciting and engaging activity that tested SportMalta employ- ees' strength, agility, and team- work. Whether they were fitness enthusiasts or just looking for a good time, the event catered for everyone. Participants were encouraged to join in on the fun. The Fit- ness Challenge Staff Event was a great way for the community to come together as a team and have a blast. Workplace physical activity events ensure a friendly atmosphere and a higher level of productivity at work. SportMalta extends its heart- felt gratitude to all participants who joined us in celebrating the European Week of Sport this year. Your enthusiasm and dedi- cation to promoting physical ac- tivity and well-being have made this event a resounding success.