Peerie Birl delights special needs teams

Disability Shetland held a fun programme called Peerie Birl at Clickimin on Saturday, which was enjoyed by approximately 50 people who came to the event.

It was held for people with additional support needs, and consisted of a competition for around 20 contestants, with carers, family members, volunteers and organisers.

They were split into three teams, Olaf, Thorfinn and Magnus, and took part in six events, standing jump, high stepper, speed bounce, long jump, target throw and shuttle run.

The events were modified to suit the different abilities of the people taking part to ensure everyone could take part in the event.

The Olaf team won overall, Thorfinn was second and the Magnus team was third.

Although a smaller event than last year, when the Peerie Birl coincided with the Commonwealth Games and Disability Shetland got funding to run the event, it was decided to continue and build on the event from last year.

One of the organisers Eleanor Robertson said: “It is hoped to carry on and do this annually, funding permitting.”

This event was run by Disability Shetland and Active Schools Shetland working together to get people active and taking part in sports.

The Eric Gray Centre also helped by running practice sessions beforehand to get the contestants used to the different events.

Mrs Robertson said: “The contestants all thoroughly enjoyed taking part. They came from all over Shetland, from Unst, Whalsay, South Mainland, West Mainland and Lerwick area. It was open to all ages and abilities.”

Dave O’Sullivan from Petrofac came along to help and support the competitors in this sport event.