SPORTS DAY

Firstly an update from last evening - the  Romantic Vienna concert performed by the Royal Northern Sinfonia.  I had a good seat - 3rd row from the front.  The orchestra were wonderful - the audience were very enthusiastic.  However the music wasn't really to my taste.  Still -  it was good to experience something different. ( and for free )

I slept well last night.  Pottered around this morning not really doing much. This afternoon I got the bus to Gateshead to go to the big Tesco there for some shopping. And I found my blip shot.

It is impossible to miss Sports Day -  a massive figure sculpture and a well-known Gateshead landmark. It was completed in 1986 as a focal point for the extensive scheme of environmental improvements in the town centre.  The 4-metre high sculpture of reinforced, painted concrete was made on site by Mike Winstone, Gateshead's sculptor in residence from 1985 to 1986.
 
Although alluding to Gateshead's renown in sports and the International Stadium the sculpture avoids clichéd representations of athletic prowess, tensed muscles and 'action' poses. More humorous than heroic the figure competes in the sack race - an event not known for poise and glamour.  
The artist aimed to convey a view of sport which most people could identify with - one emphasising the excitement, enjoyment and optimistic exertions of a school sports day.  
The sculpture also incorporates a  reference to Aesop's fable of the race between the tortoise and the hare.  I have tagged it as my entry for Silly Saturday - thanks to admirer for hosting.

Still on a sporty theme Neil is back from Praque and played rugby today.  And Becky took part in her local ParkRun as usual - and did a personal best time. 

No football for me to watch until Monday when the next instalment of " Newcastle United's Bid For Promotion " takes place. The results of today's matches went their way and IF Newcastle WIN on Monday evening then promotion is guaranteed. Its going to be exciting.  Can't wait.

Steps today - 7,346