Three-time gold medallist sprinter Harry Aikines-Aryeetey will headline an open day celebrating newly refurbished leisure centres in North Herts.
The open day will take place across three leisure centres in Hitchin, Letchworth and Royston on Saturday, September 21, to mark the completion of a £1.1 million investment project.
A member of the Team GB sprint relay team, Harry has won gold medals at each of the past three Commonwealth Games, and has also won three gold medals at the European Championships and individual bronze in the 100m at the 2014 Europeans.
At 11am on the open day, Harry will officially open the new gym at North Herts Leisure Centre, after which visitors will be able to enjoy free taster sessions led by personal trainers and gym challenges with prizes.
Sessions include under-fives gymnastics, pickleball and walking tennis, as well as free swimming lessons and the opportunity to trial a session with Hitchin Water Polo Club.
Children can visit the Play Wild Soft Play Centre, which includes a princess-themed session, face-painting, balloon modelling and a meet and greet with Spider-Man.
Throughout the morning, visitors can also meet and greet Harry, take photos with him and ask about his career.
Later in the day, Harry will make an appearance at Hitchin Swimming and Fitness Centre. There will be free sessions throughout the morning to introduce the centre's new Les Mills class offering - including BodyPump, BodyCombat and BodyBalance.
There will also be free spin sessions to showcase the centre's new spin studio, and the chance to try a Pilates-based session at Everyone Active's new Reformer studio.
At Royston Leisure Centre, the refurbished cycling centre will host spin sessions throughout the day, introducing the new Keiser bikes.
In the pool, visitors can take part in free sessions including a two-hour pool inflatable session, a rookie lifeguard session and a taster session from Royston Swimming Club.
On land, visitors can trial Judo, a CPR training course and Active Antz - a programme for the under-fives which incorporates singing, soft play and crafts.
Chris Williams, contract manager at Everyone Active across North Herts, said: “This fun-filled community open day for locals of all ages and abilities is the perfect opportunity to explore the diverse new facilities on offer if you’ve been inspired by the incredible successes of our local and national athletes this summer.
“Harry Aikines-Aryeetey, a powerhouse and exciting athlete, is also sure to inspire visitors with his incredible sporting and television achievements to date.
“Whether you are a seasoned gym professional or are looking to take the first step in your fitness journey, our team will be thrilled to welcome you."
Cllr Mick Debenham, executive member for leisure at North Herts Council, added: "We’re delighted to welcome Harry Aikines-Aryeetey to North Herts as we celebrate the refurb of these fantastic facilities.
"With Harry’s presence and the wide range of activities on offer, we hope to inspire our community to take full advantage of these facilities, stay active, and enjoy the benefits of a healthy lifestyle."
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