AN OLD Blackbird Leys tradition is to return, with help from hundreds of local children.

The Blackbird Leys Mile, which took place in the 1980s and 90s, will see 500 residents running a route through the estate.

It forms part of the Pegasus Olympics, a day of sporting events organised by the primary school just two days before the Olympic torch passes through the estate.

Assistant headteacher Beth Wilson said: “We have got a variety of sports being represented on the park, from basketball and cricket to rowing and judo.

“We just want parents, carers and their children to come along and see what is available to them.”

The mile-long race is being co-ordinated by the Independent Working Class Association Athletics Club.

It will set off from the park at 10.30am on Saturday, July 7.

Mrs Wilson said: “That will be an amazing sight.

“People can walk, jog or run the mile, setting off from a big inflatable starting line.

“The idea behind this day was to let children get involved with sports they might not have had the chance to try before – sports like rowing.

“It is all about just coming down for the day and trying your hand at different things.”

Clubs taking part include the Blackbird Leys Boxing Club, the Windrush Karate Club and the Falcon Rowing Club. Local football teams will also be taking part in a six-a-side tournament.

Other plans for the day include archery, falconry, rugby, Gaelic football and tennis table exhibitions.

Pegasus School Year Five pupil Lewis Patrick, 10, said: “I’m looking forward to it. Hopefully I will get to take part in all of it. The bit I’m looking forward to most is the run.”

Stuart Craft, who has helped to organise the day with the IWCA, added: “There are lots of confirmed groups on board, with the university judo club saying they’ll be there now.

“There is a really good atmosphere around the school. There is a great sense of excitement with the children and there are a few athletic stars in there.”

The route takes runners from the top of Blackbird Leys Park, down Pegasus Road towards the leisure centre, up Blackbird Leys Road and back to the park.

Places can be booked by contacting the school or Mr Craft on 07733 274324. There will be limited places available from 9am on the day.

If you have an old picture of the Blackbird Leys Mile contact our reporter Rhianne Pope via email at rhianne.pope@oxfordmail.co.uk or call 01865 425411.