WHAT does 2022 have in store for us? Sports have navigated the past two years as best they can, with last-minute cancellations, rescheduled dates and many different restrictions. So will it be more of the same this year? Given it has begun with the controversy over Novak Djokovic and the Australian Open, it wouldn’t surprise me.

First up is this month’s Special Olympics, re-scheduled from 2021, followed by the Winter Olympics in China in February and the Winter Paralympics in March.

On top of concerns over how Covid might impact on these events, for those involved in the Winter Olympics, they have the political side of sport, which is rearing its head for those heading to Beijing, as an added factor. This uncertainty must have an impact on the athletes’ mental health and may in some way affect their performances.

For those of us who haven’t reached the dizzy heights of sport and who perhaps are a little more mature, it’s good news as a report has found that skateboarding in middle age helps people navigate depression, bond with their children and gain “spiritual meaning”.

The picture in my head of skate parks filled with mums and dads, grans and grandads, with their caps on back to front, baggy shorts and sleeveless vests, brings a smile to my face. I do think this report needs to come with a disclaimer and details of the nearest A&E department!

For those looking for a more gentle way to get fit and healthy in 2022 and in the process raise funds for your favourite cause, walking should fit the bill. One of the most profitable challenges is the Kiltwalk. There are four locations across Scotland and three distances to choose from, and a virtual option. You keep 100% of what you raise for your charity and then they can apply for a 50% free top up from the Hunter Foundation. The first one is in Glasgow in April, so you can start your training now.