EAGER youngsters have been looking to win the race to get fit by participating in sporting activities as part of a two day course in Great Yarmouth.Over 50 children aged between eight and 15 volunteered to try their hands at a range of fun athletics events, including javelin throwing and running for the Active Norfolk star:track courses, which aims to encourage the children to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

EAGER youngsters have been looking to win the race to get fit by participating in sporting activities as part of a two day course in Great Yarmouth.

Over 50 children aged between eight and 15 volunteered to try their hands at a range of fun athletics events, including javelin throwing and running for the Active Norfolk star:track courses, which aims to encourage the children to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

Yarmouth MP Tony Wright dropped by to see the children's activities at Wellesley Road Athletics Club on Friday and presented certificates to the youngsters who had successfully completed the course. He said with not long to go until the London Olympics in 2012 it was important to get the youth involved in sport.

“It is an excellent scheme to get youngsters involved. There are over 50 youngsters involved in this locality. My thanks go to all the adults who have helped out here with this scheme. The most important point is to make sure that exercise is on the agenda. The children look like they have enjoyed it,” Mr Wright said.

The Active Norfolk scheme is funded mainly by Sport England and run across the county, but additional money comes from local councils including Great Yarmouth Borough Council.

Courses include one, two and four day events, and some will be run during the summer months.