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  • Health Trainer, Maxine, face of Brum olympics

    Posted on January 17th, 2012 by Aaron in Blog | 0 Comments »

    2012 is here and the race is on to find volunteers as Birmingham prepares to host the world’s fastest and most successful track and field teams in preparation for this year’s Olympic Games.

    The American and Jamaican track and field teams will be training in Birmingham ahead of the games – with the Americans based at Alexander Stadium and the Jamaicans based at the University of Birmingham campus. There is a huge volunteer effort underway to support the two pre-Olympic training camps.

    Volunteers are needed to perform a number of roles including stewarding, team attachés, kit carriers and team liaisons. A volunteer recruitment programme was launched by Birmingham City Council’s sports and events team last September.

    Our Health Trainer, Maxine is one of the five faces on the Birmingham ‘Our Games’ campaign, which you’ll see more information on throughout the year.

    We asked Maxine:

    What do the Olympics mean to you? “Excitement.”

    How do you feel about the fact that two of the world’s greatest teams have chosen Birmingham as their training camp ahead of the London 2012 Olympics? “I think it is fantastic! Our Brummies will make them feel very comfortable and welcome here.”

    What inspired you to become a volunteer? “For me, it’s taking part that counts and I will have fond memories of a once in a lifetime opportunity.”

    What advice would you give to other people who may be thinking of becoming a volunteer? “Just do it!”

    Do you have a favourite sporting event? “I love it all although I do enjoy track and field events.”

    Do you have a favourite athlete who inspires you? “It has to be my son Connan because he has flat feet and tight hamstrings and has to wear shoe inserts, but, despite this, at the age of 10, he took part in a sporting event at Alexander Stadium, where all local schools took part and he was crowned Champion Boy.”

    Do you do any sporting activities yourself? “Yes, I run, cycle, and play tennis and badminton. I’m thinking of taking up martial arts at the tender age of 41.”

    How has sport made a difference in your life? “It keeps me fun, flexible and active.”

    What does it feel like to be chosen as one of the five faces representing the Birmingham ‘Our Games’ campaign? “Honestly it’s a WOW! Such a once in a lifetime opportunity. I see myself as a regular person and I hope people can relate to me and my views.”

    To find out more about how Birmingham is preparing to host the world’s greatest track and field teams and what’s happening in the city, plus how to become a volunteer, visit www.birminghamourgames.co.uk

    If you’re already getting into the mood for the Olympics, there are plenty of activities and sports on offer across Birmingham as part of the ‘Be active’ scheme – and best of all, they are free to access.

    To find out what’s on offer in your area, then visit the Be active webpages at birmingham.gov.uk/beactive

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