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Sports giant Adidas who are one of the sponsors of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, today opened the first five giant multi-sport outdoor venues called ‘adiZones’.Ìý

"Projects such as the adiZones which will be an important part of ensuring local communities feel the benefit of hosting the Olympic."

Mayor for London, Boris Johnson

Forming part of a £100million investment in the Games, the adiZones will be located in each of the five Host Boroughs (Tower Hamlets, Greenwich, Hackney, Newham and Waltham Forest).

Free of Charge

Each adiZone will be free for the community to use as part of sports giants pledge to create a legacy from the London 2012 Games.

It's hoped that the installation of the adiZones will help to break down the barriers that prevent people from getting active making sport participation accessible.

Locations:

The permanent installations measuring 625sq metres and their locations have been selected in partnership with the Local Authorities of the 5 host boroughs.

The first aidZone opened today in Mile End park in Tower Hamlets
Hackney - Mabley Green
Waltham Forest - Langthorn Park
Greenwich - Charlton Park
Newham - The ''Agorospace'' Beckton

Christine Ohuruogu and some young people

Facilities:

The facilities will incorporate basketball, football and tennis areas, a climbing wall, an outdoor gym and an open area to encourage dance, aerobics and gymnastics.

Locals:

The adiZones will serve local communities as spaces where young people can meet socially whilst being encouraged to play sports.Ìý

A team of adiZone Activators will engage local communities, schools and sports clubs.
Local coaches will be encouraged to attend the sites where they will be able to spot talent and encourage them to join local clubs and sporting organisations.

Each adiZone will be maintained by the local Borough and it is hoped this initial investment will be matched by the government backed ‘National Sports Foundation.

Gold Medallist Support

On opening the new site, Christine Ohuruogu the Beijing 400 metre gold medallist said: "The adiZones are wonderful spaces where young people can meet up, hang out and get involved in sport.

"Growing up around here, I know that the adiZones will be a really welcome and needed addition to the local community."

Support has also come from the Mayor of London, Boris Johnson who said:Ìý "I fully support projects such as the adiZones which will be an important part of ensuring local communities feel the benefit of hosting the Olympic and Paralympic Games".Ìý