Bedford joins the Club Games

For the first time since GLL took over the Bedford partnership, a group of proud senior Bedfordians took the journey to London and competed in the Better Club Games.

The National Finals of the Better Club Games - also known as ‘The Older Person’s Olympics’ - took place at Copper Box Arena in London's Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park on 21st October.

Spectators, including local authority clients and partners, cheered on active seniors playing Badminton, Short Tennis, Table Tennis, Bowls, Timed Cycle and Dominoes.

cross GLL's regions, over 1,800 people experienced the Better Club Games 2026.

First launched in 2006, The Better Club Games brings together senior customers from across London and beyond to celebrate staying active and connected for the myriad benefits that sporting participation and movement brings.

Contestants are recruited through weekly leisure centre programmes and proudly represent their local teams across a wide range of sports.

In the National Finals at Copper Box Arena, a record 23 teams from across London, the South East and Midlands competed in seven disciplines for the coveted winner's title. A total of 700 people attended.

he teams were roared on by The Better Club Games' 'Older People's Ambassador', Cheryl Baker, formerly of 80s pop combo 'Bucks Fizz', who opened the event, tried her hand at the sports and presided over the medal ceremony.

Cheryl, who was born in east London's Bethnal Green, close to Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, has enjoyed an active lifestyle and lists running, playing tennis and table tennis among her favourite activities.

She commented: "The Better Club Games are so inspiring - there are so many people here defying their age!

"I didn't expect to see so many people from all over taking part. It sends a message to those who think it's too late to take up sport - it's never too late to get out, meet people and be active."

Despite an early start and longer than expected journey. Those that had made the trip were all seen cheering follow team mates on and most importantly gave thier all! 

Now Bedford has a taste for the games, we look forward to taking even more people to the event next year!