Laura Noble – London Fire Brigade

Last time you heard from me, I was gearing up to compete in the Bench Press and Ultimate Fire Fighter, and of course, experience the very best of Belfast. Well, what an amazing ten days I spent with like-minded people from all over the world. I hadn't even boarded my flight at Luton Airport, before I was approached by two volunteers, also heading to Belfast. And the friendliness did not stop there! Everyone I met from the bus drivers, to the staff at my accommodation, couldn't do enough for me as a tourist and everyone seemed genuinely excited about the Games being hosted in their city. The Opening Ceremony was a moving spectacle and there was something for everyone; from BMX stunt riders, traditional dancing, fireworks, to live music. It certainly set the tone for the start of the Games.

I stayed in halls of residence at Queen’s University which suited my needs and was an easy bus ride/walk into the city centre. Before my competitions started, I walked all over the city and found a few hidden gems. One of which had to be The Dock Café in the Titanic Quarter. Every city should have a venture just like it! I did a guided bike tour one day and found out even more about the vibrant city from a bona fide local. 

The Bench Press competition venue in Bangor was brilliant and only a short, picturesque train journey away from the city. The spectators really got behind each of the lifters, and several world records were broken which was great to witness. I got the gold medal in my category and of course, celebrated with a pint of Guinness or three afterwards!! 

My parents then arrived to support me in the Ultimate Fire Fighter competition. I was able to act as their tour guide for their stay. There was a lot of support at this event and great sportsmanship from all of the competitors. I didn't get on the podium this time but enjoyed it nonetheless.

I ended up feeling like a bit of a celebrity during my stay, as I was interviewed live on BBC Northern Ireland and also for the radio helping to spread the word about the different events on offer.

Near the end of my stay, I hired a car and drove up the North Coast with my parents to The Giants Causeway and Portrush. It was a lovely drive, the only down side was not having the time to visit all of the little towns and villages on the way! We managed to catch some of the volleyball action in Portrush, followed up with the obligatory fish’n’chips supper on the seafront.

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay in Belfast and my parents loved it too! The Games were fantastic, such a buzzing atmosphere and it definitely lived up to its mantra of “The Friendliest Games Ever”. Thank you Belfast!