The opening event for 2026 has attracted a record 168 competitors, the highest number ever recorded for a Longevity Games competition. Organisers say the strong turnout reflects growing local interest in community-focused fitness events.
A number of Swindon councillors are expected to attend the opener highlighting increasing civic support for initiatives that promote health and physical activity across the borough.
Competitors come from a wide range of backgrounds, including six NHS health professionals. The field also includes elite sporting experience, with Paralympic judo athlete Chris Skelley MBE taking part, talking to people and also opening the event.
The Longevity Games differ from traditional sports competitions by focusing on functional fitness. Participants are tested on movements linked to everyday strength, mobility and endurance rather than specialist sporting skills.
Haydon Wick Parish councillor, Leigh Jackson said:
“The Longevity Games showed me that progress is not about being the fastest or strongest, it is about showing up, taking small steps and doing it together.
As a councillor and trained Mental Health First Aider, I would encourage anyone who is struggling or unsure where to start to reach out, that first conversation can make all the difference.”
Challenges are designed to be inclusive and adaptable, allowing people of different ages and abilities to compete alongside each other on a level playing field.
Spectators are welcome throughout the day and organisers are keen for local residents to come along to support those taking part. Event winners will receive commemorative T-shirts and professional photographs.
Tim Howe, one of the organisers, said his long-term goal is to change how people in Swindon think about fitness and ageing.
“My mission is to make strength, movement and resilience part of everyday life in Swindon, not something people think they have to opt into later on,” he said.
“If we can get more people moving well now, we give them a better chance of staying independent, confident and healthy for decades to come.”
The organisers have also announced HER Longevity Games, the first all-female event in the series, designed to provide a safe, supportive and welcoming introduction to functional fitness for women of all abilities. The event takes place on Sunday 10 May at Swindon Harriers Athletics Track, with entries now open.
Further Longevity Games events are expected to take place later in the year following the strong start and record level of interest in the 2026 series opener.
Hi guys, please can you correct Chris’ surname. It should be Hunt Skelley. Thanks