Olympic medallists Linford Christie and Darren Campbell inspired Dundee children of all ages, backgrounds and abilities during the heats for this year’s Street Athletics event.

The area outside the Overgate Shopping Centre was transformed into a music filled racetrack yesterday as children competed in a series of races, with Darren and Linford arranging the runners.

The racers were split into four age categories, with the fastest from each going through to a national final on September 8.

Street Athletics is a community-focused initiative that is now in its third year. It aims to break down the barriers which prevent youngsters from believing in their own talents.

Linford said, “We want to get young people interested in sport and to understand the health and lifestyle benefits of doing sports.”

Darren commented, “We have had a great response in Dundee, and the youngsters have been really enthusiastic.”

Two sisters from Dundee, Chanice and Charlaine Neilson, were among the competitors who were keen to take tips and meet the athletes. They spoke about how much fun they had at the Street Athletics.

Chanice said, “We were encouraged to come along by our support worker at the Explore Group, and I am glad we came along because it was good to have famous athletes coming to Dundee to encourage us, and it seemed like a fun thing to do in our summer holidays.”

Steven Glass, hockey and athletics sports officer at the Olympia Leisure Centre, spoke about the importance of events such as this being held in Dundee.

“Dundee has done well to be the city chosen for the finals in September, and I think this is because of how closely the regeneration groups work within the city,” he said.

The heats have been held in 11 areas over seven days, and the winners will be invited to compete in the national finals on September 8.

Dundee athletes through to the finals include:

Under-13 boys—Shawn Dempsey and Steven McGavern.

Under-15 boys—Iain Anderson and Michael Maccoll.

Under-17 boys—Ian Hendry and Robbie Dejernier.

Under-20 boys—Chris Bailey and Danny Flanagan.

Under-13 girls—Amy Barton and Chakiela Monk.

Under-15 girls—Danielle Mackie and Jessica Low.

Under-17 girls—Michelle McKay and Rachael Mitchell.