The country’s biggest sporting festival

Be part of a day of sport and activity as this year’s TAKEPART festival kicks off in Preston Park on Saturday.

Organised by the council’s Sports Development team, TAKEPART​ is a mix of high profile events and community-based ventures running from Saturday 21 June to Sunday 6 July.

The fortnight of fun begins with a spectacular sporting funday in Preston Park to launch the full programme of events. The park will be split into 20 zones featuring a wide range of community sport, dance and active lifestyle activities to try.

There are three new zones this year. The Disc Zone featuring ultimate frisbee and disc golf (also known as frisbee golf). The Racquet and Ball zone which includes handball, volleyball and beach tennis. Fencing is also a new addition to the zones, the sport has been growing in popularity in recent years and local clubs are seeing a rise in new members as a result.

For five hours Preston Park will be filled with activities, taster sessions, demonstrations and displays. There is something for everyone, with options for all ages.

The event is only possible due to the enthusiasm and dedication of local clubs and groups. There are almost 100 local groups taking part in the event, spending the day sharing their passion and skills. As well as visiting clubs and experts from further afield to add to the experience.

Cllr Geoffrey Bowden, chair of the economic development and culture committee, said: “The TAKEPART family funday launches a summer of sporting fun across Brighton & Hove. The award winning TAKEPART festival is packed full of things to do, it’s all the best sporting activities in our city condensed into one place for one day each year. I encourage everyone to go and see what is on offer and enjoy a great day out.”

The full list of zones is Disc, Adventure (climbing, orienteering and sailing), Play (for children under eight years old), Racquet & Ball, Hockey, Golf, Cricket, Dance, Bowls, Bikestock (cycling), Tennis, Freedom Leisure, Fencing, Martial Arts, Rugby, Football, Amazing (for disabled people of all ages), Petanque, Football and Ping! (table tennis).

Other TAKEPART 2014 highlights include:

  • 25 June to 4 July - TAKEPART in schools, including athletics and swimming galas
  • 25 June, 4.30 to 6pm - Health walk, family challenge walk and treasure hunt
  • 27 and 28 June – TAKEPART Local, four events across the city, including a Big Fun Day at Wild Park.
  • 28 June, 11am to 5pm – Brighton Bikestock, community cycling event at Stanmer Park
  • 1 July, 10am to 1pm - Active Forever, older peoples’ event
  • 3 July, 5pm to 8pm – TAKEPART in the City, taking over New Road and Jubilee Square
  • 5 and 6 July – Paddle round the Pier, the country’s largest free charity beach festival

More information:

  • The festival runs from Saturday 21 June (with the family fun day in Preston Park) to Sunday 6 July (Paddle Round the Pier)
  • More information is available
  • Also new this year, wheelchair rugby demonstrations, more info: www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/wheelchair-rugby  
  • In October 2013, TAKEPART received a Big Society award from Prime Minister David Cameron in recognition of Brighton & Hove City’s Council’s sports development team’s dedication and success in running this popular festival