The Sikh Games has selected Loughborough University as its inaugural UK host for this summer’s milestone multi-sport event.
Bringing together the Sikh community from across the UK, Loughborough will welcome over 2,000 participants from 35 different regions. Over 20,000 spectators are expected on campus to witness three days of high-level sporting action.
Held between Friday 16 August – Sunday 18 August 2024, competitor sports will include football, hockey, kabaddi, athletics, powerlifting, cricket, and more. The University will also host engaging panel discussions, keynote speakers, and Q and A sessions, all covering relevant issues across the sporting landscape.
Throughout the festival-style event – of which Loughborough University is also a sponsor – participants and spectators will enjoy the finest Sikh food (langar), spiritual music, and entertainment. There will also be opportunity for spectators to try out over 20 different sports, including six disability sports.
The Sikh Games is a not-for-profit organisation that was founded to create more opportunities for ethnic minority participation in sport, whilst bringing communities together worldwide. It has been running successfully in Australia for the last 36 years, attracting up to 200,000 spectators annually, before expanding to New York City in 2016, New Zealand in 2019, and India in 2020.
Teams for this year’s event will be selected by the area in which participants live, encouraging all communities to work together and represent their region.
Richard Wheater, Director of Sport, Loughborough University, said: “After a competitive tender process we are delighted to be appointed as the UK host for the 2024 Sikh Games.
“The sporting festival is a fantastic opportunity to engage with the Sikh community, using the power of sport as a catalyst for good. Together, we’re looking forward to showcasing how sport can change lives for the better and can create memories that will last a lifetime.
“From the athletes to the coaches, officials, volunteers, and spectators, we’re proud to welcome everyone to campus for what is sure to be an incredible few days of sporting excellence across our world-class facilities.”
Mandeep Kaur Moore, President and founder of The Sikh Games UK, said: “We are thrilled Loughborough University will host the UK’s inaugural Sikh Games.
“Loughborough’s commitment to academic and sporting excellence, innovation, and inclusivity aligns perfectly with our values of Equality, Excellence and Collaboration.
“Their outstanding facilities and dedication to fostering a vibrant and diverse sporting environment make them the ideal partner for our event. We look forward to celebrating cultural diversity and athletic achievement at this world-renowned institution.”