Olympic Torchbearer Holds Celebratory Open Day at Karate Class

Mayor of Basildon and Local MP to be confirmed as Patrons

The event, to be held on the 18th August 2012 at Luncies Road Meeting Hall (10am until 12pm) will be held in collaboration with JoinIn, a nationwide initiative to encourage people to take up local sports and activities. JoinIn Local Sport is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for clubs to turn the enthusiasm for sport that the Olympic and Paralympic Games will generate into new members and supporters.
 
Harry Carnaby interviewed Marc Grayston, this is what he had to say:
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Marc Grayston was thrilled when he carried the Olympic Torch in his hometown of Basildon on the 6th July 2012. The special event held at Basildon’s Sporting Village saw hundreds of local teachers and children, the Japanese Olympic Swimming Team as well as dignitaries from Basildon Council congratulate Marc as he carried the flame for Basildon.

After the event, and in recognition of Marc’s continued work with the community through his karate class ‘Maru Karate Kai’, he was approached by both Cllr. Mo Larkin (Mayor of Basildon) and Stephen Metcalfe MP (South Basildon and East Thurrock) to become involved with the clubs future, by becoming Patrons.

In celebration of Cllr Larkin and Mr. Metcalfe becoming Patrons of Maru Karate Kai, the club will be hosting a special Open Day where a ceremony will take place to confirm the patronage. The Open Day will feature karate demonstrations from children as young as five, as well as a chance to see the Olympic Torch and the impact of the Torch Relay on the community after coming through Basildon.

Marc Grayston was quoted as saying, “I am genuinely proud of what our karate club has achieved in the last three years. Carrying the Olympic Torch, and now having two public figures agreeing to support our club makes all the work that the kids and I have put in worth it. The JoinIn weekend is a once in a lifetime opportunity to capture the enthusiasm for sport and activities that we know the Olympics will generate.”

Further details can be seen at the Maru Karate Kai website: www.marukarate.co.uk
 
Published by Harry Carnaby, 4:02pm Friday 17th August 2012