The Games begin for lucky OLA kids

Ashley Milligan, Naomi Watt, Elizabeth Imrie and Jonathon Lee — all fitness, health and exercise students at the southside college’s Cardonald campus — were asked to plan an awareness event within the community as part of their course.

The foursome chose Our Lady of the Annunciation Primary in Merrylee for their Commonwealth Kids project.

The sporty students set up stall at the school on Thursday, adapting sports from the upcoming Games to suit the five and six year olds taking part and presenting a puppet show on the benefits of healthy eating to the budding athletes.

OLA youngsters were also able to take part in a poster competition, designing their own tribute to the Commonwealth Games.

The winning entry, as announced on the day, was designed by budding artist and primary two pupil Julia Sebesta and features Clyde the 2014 mascot, as well as a colourful display of the Games sports.

Student organiser Ashley told The Extra: “We had a fantastic day, and all the children had a ball competing in the Games, from hurdles, sprinting and netball to a welly-throwing competition — and the winning team was Scotland!

“The puppet show went down a treat as well, and really got the healthy eating message across to the children.”

Ashley added: “For the privilege of taking part, we asked the kids to donate £1 each, with all the proceeds going to the Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Yorkhill.

“Newlands Morrisons were also incredibly generous and donated fruit to the event, which meant that we were able to provide the children with delicious smoothies to cool down with at the end of the day.”

The Glasgow Clyde College students are waiting to hear their fundraising total for the sick kids hospital from OLA Primary.