BRADFORD pair Emile Cairess and Ambah Thompson are among 1,600 youngsters competing at the Sainsbury's 2014 School Games, which runs from today until Sunday.
They will represent England North East in athletics – one of 12 sports being contested at the four-day event in Manchester, which is supported by National Lottery funding from Sport England and delivered by the Youth Sport Trust.
While at the event, Cairess and Thompson will get a taste of the pressure and excitement of competition, including experiencing an athletes' village, taking part in opening and closing ceremonies and performing in front of thousands.
Delighted 3,000 metres runner Cairess, 16, said: "To compete in the Sainsbury's School Games is really exciting and a great opportunity to compete against the best athletes from across the UK. I feel very proud and happy to represent the North East."
Thompson, 15, will compete in the 4x100 metres relay and added: "I am really excited to be competing at the Sainsbury's 2014 School Games as I think it will be fun.
"My main aim for the School Games is to try my best and for the team to do well. I am looking forward to being in the mix of a whole new experience."
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here