The University of Essex celebrated 500 days until the start of the Olympics with a sporting challenge at the Colchester Campus.

Today, Tuesday 15 March, marks 500 days until the opening ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games. Through out the day the University’s Sports Centre has been encouraging 500 people to row, run, walk, cycle, cross train, step and climb 500 metres.

The challenge took place in the University’s new £1.4million gym and fitness studio as well as in the central Squares at the Colchester Campus – to encourage as many people as possible to get involved.

As an extra incentive everyone taking part was entered into a prize draw. Prizes on offer include membership to the University’s’ Sports Centre and 2012 items.

Health and fitness manager Justin Hubbard said: “People have been really enthusiastic and lots have signed up to take part.

“I think University staff and students have enjoyed helping to mark the fact it is only 500 days until the Olympics and they are particular excited about 2012 as Olympic tickets went on sale today.”

All of the University’s sporting facilities will be open to the public on Sunday 26 March for anyone interested in finding out more about keeping fit at Essex.

Notes to editors

A high resolution image is available of Health and fitness manager Justin Hubbard and a member of the public taking part in the 500metres challenge. To obtain a copy, please contact the University of Essex Communications Office, telephone 01206 872807, e-mail comms@essex.ac.uk.