The Showroom - The Opening and Beyond

Lincoln's The Showroom project had its official grand opening a whole back now on Monday 4^th April.  However, seeing as we've only just come back into the land of the living, we thought we had better catch up.

They were joined by honorary guest Sir Steve Redgrave CBE, as well as local figures such as the civic party and local MP. Partners, local business, contractors and friends of The Showroom also came along to help officially launch Lincolnshire's world class youth and conference centre. Young people from local schools were invited to the opening, with many staying after the ceremony to getting exclusive tuition on the climbing wall and testing out arcade machines.

Sir Redgrave gave an inspirational talk about his experiences as an athlete and particularly highlighted the importance of enjoying the sport you compete in. He said: "If you don't enjoy what you're doing for at least 50% of the time, then it's time to find something else.  The most important thing is to enjoy your sport." 

He also spoke about his difficulties when training for the 2000 Olympics following being diagnosed with diabetes. He continued: "Training became less about the ultimate goal, getting through a session became an achievement." Steve noted that if the ultimate result seems unattainable, focus on the detail and the steps needed to get there.  After a fabulous talk and plaque unveiling, Sir Redgrave braved the climbing wall.

The Showroom has come a long way since that first opening, with the conference centre and iCafé welcoming hundreds of visitors every week.  The project is also hosting regular events in the conference centre from fortnightly sociable networking meetings to Family fun days and live music events. 

They are also running loads of action packed activities in the youth centre too.  This summer they are hosting their first ever holiday club offering activities from dodgeball to cookery.  With over 1800 members, they continue to provide world class activities and vital support for local young people.