Barnet Homes’ annual community initiative, the Urban Gamez, took place on Friday 22 August on the Grahame Park Estate in Colindale. It was another great success this year with a huge turnout of nearly 400 local residents, much bigger than in previous years. The level of athletic skill was amazing, and future track stars coming first in their races were rewarded with gift vouchers and medals presented by the Mayor of Barnet and the CEO of The Barnet Group, Tracey Lees. Free T-shirts and drinks were given to everyone who registered for the races.

A range of other sporting organisations and partners were also present and were a big hit. Barnet Bulldogs Basketball, Saracens Rugby and cheerleading, Barnet FC with their speedshot, Barnet College, Lovell, Genesis Housing, ARTiculate, The Nutrition Coach who provided free body testing, the Grahame Park boxing club, Rolling Base and Fairplay Barnet with a sensory chill zone for younger children. Present also were the Barnet Police Cadets, AFST football and GLL Leisure Centres.

The enthusiasm from the organisation Nutmeg Community was contagious and got everybody up dancing and singing with the help of DJ MC Academy who provided the sound system for the day. Representatives from Creative Connections painted some amazing artwork summarising the outcomes of the day together with quotes from young people including “great day, exciting, best Urban Gamez yet.”

A raffle donated by Lovell and their partners raised over £800 for the event and gave prizes such as a helicopter ride over London, vouchers and an iPad.

People were able to access information from other organisations present about being active within their community, local opportunities for education and leading a healthy active lifestyle.

Children were overheard saying they did not want to go home!