The sports day was held in the garden of the Joy Clare therapy building in the grounds of the main hospital. There was a wide variety of activities for everyone to take part in, including a ball and spoon race, the three-legged race, long jump and shot put.
For the ball and spoon race competitors had to combine balance and coordination as they attempted to complete a circuit of the garden whilst balancing a tennis ball on a spoon. Great concentration was shown by everyone whilst everyone watching clapping and providing much encouragement.
For the three-legged race participants had to pair up, standing side by side with a leg tied to one another. Once in a three-legged position, they completed a circuit of the Joy Clare garden. To be successful each pair had to demonstrate teamwork and strategy to go as fast and efficiently as possible. This was great fun for participants and spectators.
The shot put used was a 3kg ball, which demanded explosive upper body power from the participants. They had to throw the ball as far as possible and again had three attempts to record their best score. Finally, each competitor also had three attempts to jump as far as they could in the long jump.
There was a great turn out and lots of service users and staff took part, including Lynn the hospital manager. At the end of the events everyone’s points were added up and the ward which amassed the highest total and thus winning the trophy was Highwoods Ward, the hospital’s acute mental health service for men.
The event was a great success. Cygnet Hospital Colchester’s Personal Trainer Matt said “It was great to see so many service users and staff members participating in the sports events. There was great sportsmanship shown by all and some exciting competitions. Some of the service users had been training in the gym ahead of Sports Day, with a motivation shown towards the upcoming event.”
