Children from across Wales met their sporting heroes at the Millennium Stadium today when ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ brought their charity event to the iconic venue as part of the Millennium Stadium’s annual Community Events initiative.
Former WBO & WBU world champion boxer Enzo Maccarinelli, Cardiff City star Adam Matthews and Newport Gwent Dragons prop Ali McKenzie were on hand to present prizes to the school children, after the anti-racism charity asked for their support to raise awareness in their respective communities.
The star-studded annual event was returning for its fourth year at the Millennium Stadium as part of the Stadium’s initiative which welcomes applications from community and charitable organisations across Wales to bid to bring their own events to the iconic multi-functional venue, free of any hire charge.
Maccarinelli was thrilled to support the anti-racism cause, held in one of the five lounges used by VIP guests during major events, and relived memories of winning and defending his title under the retractable roof at the multi-event venue.
“It’s fantastic that the Millennium Stadium Community Events project brings kids to Wales’ national Stadium, where they see all of their idols from boxing to rugby and football and many other events - it’s unbelievable for them to be here,” said Maccarinelli.
“Having boxed here three times, winning my World title and then defending it twice, I know all about the marvellous atmosphere here.
“Nothing beats the noise of the crowd that you get behind you at the Millennium Stadium and it’s been great to share this experience today.”
Having educated nearly 10,000 youngsters about how to stop racism in their communities, ‘Show Racism the Red Card’ asked young people to design posters, t-shirts or to produce a piece of poetry, dance or drama with a strong anti-racism message.
Today’s awards ceremony celebrated the biggest competition to date with almost 5,000 youngsters from well over 100 schools taking part, and 82% of council areas getting involved.
Following the success of the day, Millennium Stadium General Manager Gerry Toms reminds not-for-profit community organisation across Wales to apply to hold a community event at the Millennium Stadium via the official website: www.millenniumstadium.com/communityevents
“The Community Events programme is a great opportunity for charitable organisations all over Wales to enjoy their national stadium facilities without the costs that commercial organisations face when bringing their events to the city centre,” said Mr Toms.
“The events have been hugely successful over the years and attracted a range of positive activity from community football to landing the Wales Air Ambulance helicopter on the pitch.”
Up to 15 events each year will be staged free of charge, except for direct costs incurred by the Millennium Stadium which will be borne by the event organisers, and Mr Toms is always keen to encourage new ideas from community groups in Wales.
“We encourage people from right across Wales to apply and welcome new groups of people with new ideas,” he added.
“We can be flexible here as the Millennium Stadium is a multi-event venue – if it is possible, then our team can make it happen within the Community Events programme.”
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