The sprint and hurdles have been canceled due to the expected heat and instead there are various water games in the middle area of the Prins Hendrik athletics track in Vught. More than three hundred children from the Humankind out-of-school care center in Central Brabant are taking part in the ‘BSO Olympic Games’ in the sun-drenched sports park.
Eye of the Tiger sounds from the loudspeakers as the children arrive at their Olympic Games. Justin from bso de Toversteen from Heesch has no idea when he comes in: “We don’t know what to do yet, but we are going to win”, he says in a fierce voice. “We are also going to win”, Maud van de Wentelwiek exclaims Boxtel: “I enjoy swimming and horseback riding”, she adds. Those sports are certainly not available on Wednesday in Vught, although swimming would be wonderful today.
“Due to the warm weather, we have extra water games.”
“We actually organize this every year,” says Rex van Campenhout. “But this time it is the first time in two years because of corona. Exercise is important and that is why we have been doing all kinds of activities for all groups throughout the week, from babies to school leavers from primary school. We have made adjustments due to the warm weather. There are additional water games such as water dodgeball and a sponge race,” said Rex.
“Lemon lemon de Toversteen becomes champion.”
Just like the Olympic Games, the sports spectacle starts with a flag parade. All groups made their own flag and also a battle cry. And that’s how it sounds at the opening: “Lemon lemon de Toversteen becomes champion” and: “The Rebbels are super fast with all groups we will get there.”
Pedagogical employee Sindy is still trying to convey the Olympic idea. She shouts: “Participating is more important than winning.” But before she knows it, a large part of her group has run to the center of the field to jump all into the beam of a spinning waterspout. When asked what sport this is, a soaking wet guy answers: “Waterheads! Get as much water on your hair as possible with your head. Super fun!”
Before he can say his name, his head has already disappeared into the beam.