City's pride and passion are winning combination for UK Corporate Games

Europe’s largest multi-sport festival for businesses gets under way in the city tomorrow (Thursday, July 25) and runs until Sunday (July 28).

It will see representatives from hundreds of UK companies going for glory in a wide range of sports, from badminton and netball to golf and table tennis.

And the 3,000-plus athletes, volunteers and spectators attending the Games were today told that they can look forward to a typically warm Leeds welcome.

Councillor James Lewis, leader of Leeds City Council, said:

“Anticipation has been building for the UK Corporate Games ever since the city was announced as 2024’s host, with the large contingent of Leeds-based businesses taking part underlining just how warmly this inclusive event has been embraced by the local community.

“I’m sure everyone visiting the city for the Games will come away hugely impressed by our sports facilities, our cultural and social scenes and the ongoing improvements we are making to our connectivity and public spaces.

“Most importantly of all, though, they can expect a big-hearted reception from the people of Leeds, who are proud of their city and passionate about sport. It promises to be a really memorable few days.”

Held in a different city each year, the UK Corporate Games give businesses an opportunity to build team spirit, benefit from networking and raise the profile of their brands.

This year’s event is taking place with the support of Leeds City Council and the University of Leeds, with the John Charles Centre for Sport, Leeds Dock, The Edge, Bodington Football Hub and Moor Allerton Golf Club among the venues for the various contests.

Leeds University Union will be the centre of attention on Friday night when it stages a Games welcome festival, hosted by sports broadcaster Tanya Arnold. The evening will feature a grand parade of athletes, live music and a speech from the Lord Mayor of Leeds, Councillor Abigail Marshall Katung.

The Games are expected to generate more than £2m for the local economy at the same time as showcasing Leeds to visiting business people as an attractive option if their company is considering relocation or expansion.

They will also strengthen the reputation of Leeds as a sporting powerhouse, with the city in recent times hosting high-profile occasions such as the Rob Burrow Leeds Marathon and the AJ Bell World Triathlon Championship Series.

Furthermore, it is hoped that the council’s long experience of incorporating sustainability strategies into the planning of major events will help make these the most eco-friendly Games yet.

The headline sponsor of this year’s UK Corporate Games is rail operator LNER, with the Brownlee Foundation on board as official charity partner.

For further information about the Games and its competition schedule, click here.

ENDS