AT the South West Youth Games held at Okehampton on Sunday, July 9, Team Mid Devon faced some tough competition from teams from across Devon and Cornwall but still came away with some medals.

Despite a slightly depleted team this year, the children from Mid Devon excelled and all had a fantastic day, particularly as the weather was a perfect mix of sunshine and welcome cloud.

Mid Devon fielded two teams in girls’ football, badminton, mini tennis and triathlon. There were also individual competitors in cyclocross, a new event introduced to the Games this year which proved very popular.

Bronze medals were won by the girls’ football team, a sport that is proving very popular across the South West, and the year Seven and Eight triathlon team, with an individual bronze going to one of the year Nine and 10 triathletes.

Triathlon is also increasing in popularity and Mid Devon had a strong field for this tough competition involving a 300m swim, a 4km cycle (on grass) and a 2km run.

Praise and congratulations go to all the teams for entering into the spirit of the Games, whether winners or not. Hosts and the overall winners were West Devon.

However the South West Youth Games wouldn’t happen without the dedication of the volunteers who support, train and manage the teams and a big thank you must go to all of them.

It is a great day out and long may it continue.

If anyone is interested in getting involved next year, and the organisers need the help of dedicated sports coaches to make this event the success it currently is, please contact Carole Jolliffe on 01884 234320 or email: [email protected] .