Pick Your Sport

UTMB® World Series confirms seven new events across the USA, Hong Kong, Andorra, Mexico, Italy and France for 2022

written by Hugh

15 leading international events now confirmed for the inaugural UTMB® World Series with more exceptional events to be revealed in coming weeks.

UTMB® World Series today confirmed the newest seven world-class events in Hong Kong, Andorra, Mexico, Italy, France, and the USA that will join the inaugural circuit in 2022, including a mix of established and brand-new races. The announcement is the first of many over the coming months that will see around 30 of the world’s leading international trail running events confirmed for the ultimate trail running series.

As part of the UTMB® World Series commitment to offer quality events across the globe and improve accessibility for all trail runners, leading events Western States® 100-Mile Endurance Run, La Sportiva® Lavaredo Ultra Trail® by UTMB®, TransLantau™ by UTMB®, Trail 100 Andorra by UTMB®, Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB® as well as brand new events Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB® and Puerto Vallarta México by UTMB® have been added to the Series which debuts in 2022. Earlier this year, eight events were confirmed in Spain, France, Thailand, China, Australia, and New Zealand giving more runners the chance to live an extraordinary adventure.UTMB® World Series Events are the first step for runners to begin their quest to the UTMB® World Series Finals in Chamonix, France and are the only races where athletes can collect Running Stones for use in the UTMB® Mont-Blanc registration lottery for 2023 onwards. The UTMB® World Series Events will also be the only races where elites can qualify for the UTMB® World Series Finals.

Western States® 100-Mile Endurance Run and UTMB® World Series join forces to offer elites the chance for a double-race qualification Taking place on 25-26 June, 2022, the Western States 100-Mile Endurance Run in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains is one of the most coveted events in trail running and has now been confirmed as the first of many races in the USA to join the UTMB® World Series.The oldest 100-mile race in the world, the event is known for its relentless challenge through high mountains and deep canyons. With more than 18,000 feet of climbing and 23,000 feet of descent, Western States 100 is one of the undisputed crown jewels of human endurance.

The race has a unique qualifying system for elite runners where Western States Golden Ticket feeder races allow the top two male and female finishers to automatically qualify for entry. In an unprecedented evolution, elite athletes will now have the chance to double-qualify for UTMB® Mont-Blanc and Western States through the integration of select Western States Golden Ticket races into the UTMB® World Series. In 2022, Tarawera™ Ultramarathon by UTMB® in New Zealand and UTMB® Mont-Blanc will both offer qualification to Western States. Beginning in 2023, four or more Western States Golden Ticket Races are expected to also be part of the UTMB® World Series.

Registration for the general 2022 race lottery will be open from the 1st to the 21st of November on the race website.

Italy’s renowned race, La Sportiva® Lavaredo Ultra Trail® by UTMB®, invites runners to live the Dolomites experience in one of the world’s most beautiful mountain rangesOne of Europe’s most famed races, La Sportiva® Lavaredo Ultra Trail® by UTMB®, will in 2022 welcome runners from all over the world to Cortina d’Ampezzo, home of the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Northern Italy, where the ever present and unique Dolomite mountains will provide a striking background.Taking place from the 23-26 June 2022, with four distances including 20km, 48km, 80km, and 120km, approximately 5,000 runners from 70 countries are expected to traverse some of the most scenic parts of the Dolomites along mountain passes and forest tracks. Famed as some of the most beautiful mountains in the world the event begins with a spectacular night start.Pre-registrations will be open for this sell-out event from the 15th to 25th of November on the official event website.

A brand-new event, Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB® to become the biggest trail running event in the Mediterranean basinTaking runners from the serenity of the high mountains to the shores of the legendary French Riviera, the newly created Nice Côte d’Azur by UTMB® will host its first edition in 2022.

Supported by Christian Estrosi, Mayor of the City of Nice and President of the Nice Côte d’Azur metropolis, the event will take place as the summer season comes to a close from the 22-25 September. Across four distances ranging from 20km to 100 miles, runners will have the chance to discover the varied landscapes of the Nice Côte d’Azur metropolis. From the Mercantour National Park – a renowned biodiversity hot spot with pristine glacial lakes dotting alpine valleys – to panoramic views of the French Riviera and a finish line at the heart of the City of Nice on the famous Promenade des Anglais, the event is set to enthral runners as it aims to quickly become the biggest trail running event in the Mediterranean basin.Event details will be revealed during a press conference organized in Nice in the coming weeks. Entries will open in December 2021.

From the mountains to the ocean, the newly created event, Puerto Vallarta México by UTMB®, embraces an authentic Mexican spiritPuerto Vallarta, located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, will host a brand-new event in October, 2022. A city defined by the natural charm of its beaches which are surrounded by the remarkable Sierra Madre mountains, Puerto Vallarta Mexico by UTMB® will highlight the best the region has to offer. Taking runners on a journey from the deep pine mountain forests through impressive jungle and ancient colonial towns, while following endless rivers to the beautiful bay of Puerto Vallarta, this new event will have an authentic Mexican spirit across 55km, 100km, and 100-mile distances.Details of the courses will be revealed, and entries will open in December.

TransLantau™ by UTMB® to give runners of all abilities the chance to escape the city and connect with nature on Hong Kong’s wildest islandTransLantau™ by UTMB® – a leading race in Hong Kong and hugely popular amongst international runners with 43 different nationalities represented at the last edition – has been confirmed as the latest event in Asia to join the UTMB® World Series.Taking place in November 2022, the event will offer three races on Lantau Island including 25km, 50km and 100km distances, giving runners the chance to experience the wildest island of Hong Kong.The demanding course is on trails for 80% of the race, covering two country parks. Participants get to connect with nature as they push their limits and immerse themselves in a landscape of undulating hills and long coastline, untouched by the urbanization of Hong Kong. The course takes runners on an authentic journey, past iconic locations including Tai O fishing village, Big Buddha and Po Lin Monastery.Entries will open in March 2022 with event details available on the website here.

A unique adventure at Trail 100 Andorra by UTMB® for runners to immerse themselves in the magnificence of the Pyrenees mountainsFrom 24-26 June, 2022, Trail 100 Andorra by UTMB® will allow runners to completely immerse themselves in the beauty of the Pyrenees mountains. Situated between Spain and France, the event will offer runners a unique adventure on the canopy of Andorra – one of the smallest countries in the world that 2019 UTMB® winner Pau Capell described as, “a paradise to enjoy the mountain and its landscapes.”Trail 100 Andorra by UTMB® will have distances for everyone to experience the serenity of the ever-evolving Pyrenean terrain, with a shorter 7.5km race for those new to the sport, to complement the 21km, 50km, and 105km races which will be part of the UTMB® World Series.Entries will open on the 10 November here.

Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB® to take runners on a cultural and spiritual journey through south-central FranceThe standard for beautiful terrain in European trail racing is incredibly high, and the stunning course of Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB® is no exception. Held in Haute-Loire, a lush, green destination shaped by volcanoes and rivers in south-central France, Trail du Saint-Jacques by UTMB® has deep roots in the history of its territory. Runners undertake an exceptional journey along the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, before finishing at the foot of the famous Le Puy-en-Velay cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.An event that is well-known for its inclusivity, four races including 17km, 43km, 72km and 123km will take runners through magnificent, unspoilt landscapes on 11 June 2022.Registrations open on November 26 here.

6th November 2021 0 comment

Hockey

GEORGE PINNER RETIRES FROM INTERNATIONAL HOCKEY

written by Hugh

George Pinner has called time on a 14-year career and announced he is retiring away from international hockey.

The goalkeeper played 195 times for England and Great Britain between 2007-2021, with 128 of those appearances coming for the former and 67 for the latter.

George featured in a total of 24 international competitions during his illustrious career, playing at two World Cups and two Commonwealth Games with England while he was also part of three Olympic squads for Great Britain, featuring in every match at Rio 2016.

He won a number of medals too, including leading England to 2017 European and Commonwealth bronzes as co-captain of the squad, a position he held alongside Phil Roper and Ian Sloan for two years.

Highly respected throughout the hockey world, George was shortlisted for the FIH Goalkeeper of the Year award on three separate occasions and was also named Goalkeeper of the Tournament at the 2016 Champions Trophy after excelling in front of a boisterous home crowd in London. George was also awarded that individual accolade at the 2012/13 Hockey World League Final in India, where he helped England to a bronze medal finish.

As well as his skill and talent on the pitch, George was well known for his exuberant celebrations while he was also a very well-liked and respected member of each squad he played for.

“Trying to express just how much enjoyment being part of the England & Great Britain squads for the last 14 years has given me is difficult to put into words,” George said.

“It’s been an honour to represent my country on so many occasions and I feel incredibly proud and grateful to have had the opportunity to captain the side along the way.

“Results may not have always gone the way I would have hoped but it was never through a lack of trying. Ultimately though it’s not the successes on the pitch that I treasure the most, but the lifelong friends I have made in the staff and player groups along the way.

“I can’t thank them and my incredibly supportive family and friends enough for making the experience such an incredible one.”

Men’s head coach Danny Kerry said: “George has been a fabulous, larger-than-life character within the England & Great Britain men’s teams for many years. Being involved in three Olympic campaigns, and the number of caps he has accrued, is testimony not just to his goalkeeping ability but to his commitment, strength of character and energy.

“George’s qualities will be difficult to replace. For those who know him well he is not just an extrovert and energy giver, but someone who cares deeply about his team-mates. During my short time working with George, it was evident how much he strived to improve his game and his role within the squad. Whatever path George now takes I’m confident his many qualities will serve him well.”

Ed Barney, Great Britain Hockey’s Performance Director, added: “George has devoted endless years of commitment, passion and graft to England and Great Britain Hockey. He has been an instrumental part of the men’s leadership group throughout the Tokyo cycle.

“George’s boundless energy, combined with his ability to cut the nub of issues and skilfully challenge and support others, is an example to all. It goes without saying the George’s vibrance has been uplifting for all who have had the pleasure of being around him. We wish George all the best in his future ventures.”

England and Great Britain Hockey would like to thank George for his incredible service and congratulate him on a superb career. We wish him all the very best moving forward.

Images available here – https://www.englandhockey.co.uk/media/news/george-pinner-retires-from-international-hockey

5th November 2021 0 comment

Basketball

London Lions historic run continues, winning 4 out of 4 in FIBA Europe Cup

written by Hugh

Last night marked yet another historic moment in British Basketball, with the London Lions winning their fourth game in a row in the FIBA Europe Cup, becoming the first British team to do so. Completed with a dominant 85 – 67 win against Dutch team Donar Groningen, the Lions have continued breaking records with yet another victory in front of another huge home crowd turnout. The result leaves the Lions top of their group with just two games remaining.

The third quarter saw tensions rise, with Donar Groningen’s dominant start bringing the score to 46 a piece. However, Isaiah Reese and Marquis Tague helped lead the Lions to victory, scoring the most points against the former Champion’s League team from Groningen in the North of Netherlands. Jordan Williams and Dirk Williams also played critical roles in the dominant victory.

Following the addition of a number of exciting ex-NBA talents, the Lions are looking to start the British Basketball League (BBL) this Friday on a winning streak, when they play against Cheshire Phoenix.

Tickets can be purchased here:
https://www.ticketmaster.co.uk/london-lions-tickets/artist/1775085

Their success marks an exciting road ahead for basketball in the UK, and with the British Basketball League (BBL) about to begin, team captain Jordan Spencer – currently in his fourth season with the team – looks to lead the team into national and continental success for the first time in British basketball history.

Head coach Vince Macaulay comments on the London Lions record-breaking win:

“The Dutch team put on a great performance, but we really pulled together as a team tonight. The guys really put in a brilliant performance on both ends of the court, with some great shooting and shutdown defence when we needed it, which is really testament to the talent that we have in the squad. Four back-to-back wins in Europe are unheard of in British basketball and we are immensely proud to be blazing a trail for other British teams in future. We are excited for the BBL to begin on Friday, where I’m certain that our team will continue to play with dominance”

Vince, head coach of the London Lions, and the team’s players are also keen to discuss the following:

The Lions’ ambitions for the 2021-22 season
Why providing an environment of inclusion at games is a key part of the Lions plans for fans
The importance of providing young people with strong role models to look up to in UK professional sports

Image courtesy of London Lions

4th November 2021 0 comment

Rowing

Alastair Marks appointed as Interim Chief Executive Officer

written by Hugh

British Rowing has announced that Alastair Marks will take up the position of Interim Chief Executive Officer on a fixed term basis until the end of March 2022.

Marks brings extensive experience from across the sports industry in a corporate, agency and governing body environment having held a similar position recently at British Gymnastics and previous senior roles at Neilsen Sports, the Lawn Tennis Association, Rugby Football Union, McDonald’s, Sainsbury’s and Norwich Union. In all these roles, Marks has demonstrated a strong track record for bringing together communities and delivering growth and digital transformation.

British Rowing Chair, Mark Davies welcomed the appointment, “We’re really happy to be able to bring in someone of Alastair’s pedigree to lead British Rowing. Throughout his career, as well as a track record as a strong leader, Alastair has delivered some really exciting projects which are directly relevant to what we are setting out to achieve our strategy.”

Marks was clear in the opportunity that exists for rowing, “I am delighted to be joining British Rowing at this pivotal time for the sport and excited to be leading the delivery of the inspiring and forward looking vision that the rowing community, staff and Board has created together. Building on the great success and traditions of the sport, the potential to grow all aspects of rowing is vast and I look forward to bringing my experiences to the organisation to help bring its bold vision for the future to life.”

Marks will take up the role of CEO on Monday 1 November with a focus on implementing British Rowing’s updated strategy, further details of which will be released to members shortly. An executive search process for a permanent CEO will be launched in the New Year.

2nd November 2021 0 comment

Cycling

EBK GP announces global multi-city E-Bike race series to take place in 2022

written by Hugh

E-Bike Grand Prix (EBK GP) has today announced that the first ever race series will take place in 2022, with Dubai, one of the world’s most pioneering cities with a reputation for delivering sporting spectacles, confirmed as the first host city partnership.

EBK GP is an exhilarating new international cycling sport – a grand prix series – showcasing ground-breaking E-Bike technology whilst working with global host cities to raise awareness of climate change challenges; seeking to mobilise citizens and promote cleaner, greener, healthier cities.

The series will take place in cities around the world, with races along public roads, showcasing iconic landmarks and cultural sites, as part of a high-speed, thrilling sporting spectacle. Coverage of the Dubai event and the Series will be broadcast internationally via television and digital media.

EBK GP will include ten events with ten competing franchise teams each fielding two squads, one male and one female. Gender equality is central to the series, with both male and female competitions contributing equally to the team’s overall score.

EBK GP is committed to leaving a lasting green legacy in host cities, and as part of the agreement to become a host city, government administrations will commit to tailored three-year Sustainable Transformational Mobility (STM) programmes. Development and delivery support will be provided by a sustainability partner.

Global host city partners will also join together in a visionary network of progressive cities sharing knowledge and world-class best practice. Collectively, they will make a significant contribution towards making the cities of the future cleaner, greener and healthier.

EBK GP is also showcasing what can be achieved with technological innovations in cycling. Proudly, BMC Switzerland will be the exclusive bike partner, building an innovative new E-Bike for the series. For decades, BMC bikes have met the highest standards in quality, design and manufacturing.

This new E-Bike will combine traditional cycling capability with battery-powered technology creating the fastest, most technologically advanced, and environmentally friendly cycle sport in the world. The bike, yet to be released, will be used by all teams and is set to deliver the new benchmark of e-road bikes – for both competitive and non-competitive cyclists.

Judith Rowan, Global Host City Director at EBK GP, commented: “The E-Bike Grand Prix Series reflects the newly pivoted face of global sporting events. It is a disrupter. EBK’s technology-driven, intense race format together with a robust sustainability mandate are essential attributes of sporting events of the future. We are very excited to lead the charge and extremely proud to welcome Dubai – one of the world’s great innovators – as our inaugural host city partner. This is an exciting development for cycle sport and the sports industry as a whole!”

HE Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council, said: “We are thrilled to be the first host city announced for the first-ever E-Bike Grand Prix Series – the fastest and most technologically advanced cycle sport in the world. Dubai is one of the world’s most pioneering cities, and is the embodiment of possibility and innovation, and there are clear synergies between our city’s vision and this ground-breaking sports property.

“The EBK GP will not only create a sensational sport experience in the city, but it will further advance Dubai’s sustainability achievements, especially at a time when we are hosting Expo 2020, which is championing sustainability and promoting a future where mankind can live in harmony with nature and technology.”

David Zurcher, Chief Executive Officer at BMC Group, said: “At BMC we are always looking towards the future. It’s in our DNA to push the boundaries of cycling innovation, whether it is in terms of new technologies, trends or exciting event formats like the E-Bike Grand Prix. We are excited to be the bike partner for EBK GP, being at the forefront of a new, exhilarating cycle sport as we have been so many times in BMC’s history.”

30th October 2021 0 comment

Athletics

UK ATHLETICS AND HOME COUNTRY ATHLETICS FEDERATIONS LAUNCH UK-WIDE COACHING STRATEGY

written by Hugh

UK Athletics and its four partner Home Country Athletics Federations (HCAFs) has officially launched the Coaching Strategy for the sport of athletics in the UK.

The formation of the strategy – a significant milestone – has been led by UK Athletics’ Interim CEO and Director of Development Mark Munro and new Head of Coach Development Jackie Newton, along with the respective HCAF coaching leads and follows a period of listening to the coaching community and detailed consultation across the sport.

The ambition is a shared vision for coaching, created by coaches, with exceptional coaching for all athletes at every stage of their athletics experience.

The aim of the strategy is to put coaches at the heart of the athletics community through a shared vision for coaching, with open and transparent communication, high levels of engagement and support, that is coach-focused and develops strong networks and great learning environments for coaches across the UK.

The full strategy can be viewed here. (https://www.uka.org.uk/coaching/athletics-coaching-strategy/)
A presentation summarising the key components for the strategy can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XtMAs7mtO78
A number of virtual update sessions have been arranged on the evenings of 3^rd, 8^th, 10^th and 12^th November – coaches can sign up to attend here. (https://www.athleticshub.co.uk/course-list/uka?what=UK%20Wide%20Coaching%20Strategy%20Webinar)

Jackie Newton said:

“Today is a significant moment for UKA in relation to how we work with coaches and partners to really focus on supporting coaches at all levels and putting coaches very much at the heart of our work. Whilst announcing the strategy marks the end of a period of work in listening to, and defining what coaches were asking for and how they are more effectively valued and supported, it is also the start of delivering against the work programme and very transparent timelines we have committed to.

“Coaches are central to increasing, developing and retaining athletes, and it is crucial we both retain and build this great coaching workforce. We’ve heard of the need to focus on how we better support current and future coaches and provide best practice support and resources to clubs. We also acknowledge that many would like to see athletics coaching as a viable career option, and as a very minimum there needs to be a better appreciation of the personal investment made by coaches.

“I’d like to thank the many coaches who contributed to this strategy through the Surveys, focus groups, webinars as well as structured interviews and conversations that took place in the last few months.

That input has helped us to build on the initial review work from 2019-20 by Dr Malcolm Brown and bring this strategy to life.”

Mark Munro said:

“We have a great tradition in this country of producing brilliant coaches but as an organisation we have taken our eye off the ball somewhat. We must learn from what the coaching community have been telling us and we would like coaches to feel like this is a coaching strategy created by coaches – for coaches. Every step of the way in delivering this plan will be underpinned by the core pillars of our approach. We will continue to use proper evidence-based insight and data, but more importantly we will continue to listen, and we will make sure we invest in people, as well an ensuring everything we do is both inclusive and sustainable.

“Through the working group a number of key priorities have been recognised and identified within the document and there will also be a number of event specific advisory panels established for each discipline with external expertise supporting, checking and challenging progress.

“I would encourage anyone to take time to engage with the full strategy which also outlines a detailed action plan with timings and how success will be measured. It is a comprehensive plan that demonstrates a real commitment to long-term coaching success.”

27th October 2021 0 comment

Rugby

Neither concussion or career length in rugby linked with memory and thinking problems

written by Hugh

UK researchers have published findings showing that a history of concussion in former elite level, amatuer rugby players is not linked with memory and thinking in later life. The journal Alzheimer’s & Dementia published the results today (Wednesday 20 October).

What did the researchers in this study do?

Researchers looked at 146 former elite male rugby union players over the age of 50. The average length of the players’ careers was just over 15 years.

The volunteers self-reported the number of concussions they received during their careers.

The research team then looked at the study participants’ scores on a measure of memory and thinking, called the PACC.

What did they find?

Researchers found nearly 80% of the rugby players studied had experienced concussion. However, the researchers found no link between a concussive event and performance on the memory and thinking tests.

However, in a smaller sub-group of participants aged 80 years and over, those who reported more than three concussions had worse cognition than those who hadn’t experienced concussion.

What our expert had to say?

Dr Susan Kohlhaas, Director of Research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said:
“Collisions in sport is an area of increasing scrutiny for public health, however relatively little is known about the long-term impact of concussions received in rugby union.

“Findings from this study of fomer elite level amatuer rugby union players adds to our understanding of the risks involved with professional sports. While we know exercise is good for our brain health, certain sports involving high energy collisions have been linked to risk of long-term neurological problems.

“There hasn’t been enough long-term research involving ex-rugby players for us to know what specific risks might be associated with a rugby career. Further research in a larger number of volunteers is required to establish if any link between concussions sustained on the rugby field and memory problems in later life exists.

“While the game of rugby has evolved over a number of years, so has the approach to managing concussions, and creating a safer game should continue to be an important for public health goal for all.

“Funding for dementia research lags behind funding for other conditions and we need to see this change. Only with increased funding for research into dementia will we be able to help reduce the number of dementia cases.”

20th October 2021 0 comment

Athletics

67 ATHLETES OFFERED MEMBERSHIP TO BRITISH ATHLETICS OLYMPIC WORLD CLASS PROGRAMME (WCP)

written by Hugh

A group of 67 athletes have been offered membership to join the British Athletics Olympic World Class Programme (WCP) for 2021/22.

The WCP is UK Sport’s National Lottery funded initiative supporting the delivery of success at named milestone targets, namely outdoor track World and European Championships and Olympics Games. The WCP is split into levels reflecting the actual and potential performance levels of athletes: Podium, Podium Potential and Confirmation.

Joining the programme are 22 athletes, including Olympic silver medallist Keely Hodgkinson who is added at Podium level. The European Indoor 800m champion graduates from the British Athletics Futures Academy Programme to the WCP.

Tokyo 1500m bronze medallist, Josh Kerr, moves up to podium level, as do Andrew Pozzi, Jemma Reekie and Jazmin Sawyers. After her seventh-place finish in the women’s 800m at the Olympic Games, Alex Bell is also offered Podium membership.

Olympic finalists Lizzie Bird, Jake Heyward and Marc Scott are among the athletes to be offered membership at Podium Potential level. After improving their personal bests during 2021, high jumper Emily Borthwick and shot putter Scott Lincoln also join the programme.

A new Confirmation level has been added to the World Class Programme. The Athlete Performance Awards (APAs) at this level are designed to support athletes in their first 1-2 years on the World Class Programme and provide a period through which the potential of the athlete is explored and confirmed.

Among the first athletes to benefit from this level are European indoor finalist Ellie Baker and European U23 medallists’ Holly Mills and Thomas Randolph.

The men’s 4x400m relay squad will be supported via development opportunities such as relay camps which will run in parallel to the World Class Programme to support several developing athletes in this event.

As per previous years, the nomination of Athlete Performance Awards (APA) for athletes is subject to UK Sport ratification and a signed athlete agreement between the athlete and UKA.

The Paralympic World Class Programme and Futures Academy Programme will be announced in due course.

Performance Director, Sara Symington, said,

“As we start the Paris cycle, and longer-term Los Angeles 2028, we made a number of informed decisions in regard to the World Class Programme membership that aligns with our strategic priorities. We will work closely with the 67 athlete and coach pairings that we are offering membership to and will look to add support and value in their journey via their individual athlete plan (IAP).

“The selection process is robust and lengthy, and we use a lot of data which is complemented by the knowledge of our event leads to inform the decision-making process. We have given careful consideration to those athletes who meet the selection criteria and performance matrix which align to the future ambitions of the World Class Programme.

“In relation to the men’s 4x400m relay athletes we are taking an approach which allows more flexibility and look to support the development of several athletes during this cycle. This support will be offered via camps and training opportunities to a cohort of eligible athletes so that we can build the team towards the longer-term targets of Paris and LA.”

The British Athletics Olympic World Class Programme Athletes:

Olympic Podium (17):

Dina Asher-Smith

Alex Bell

Holly Bradshaw

Adam Gemili

Callum Hawkins

Keely Hodgkinson

Abigail Irozuru

Katarina Johnson-Thompson

Josh Kerr

Nick Miller

Laura Muir

Andrew Pozzi

Jemma Reekie

Jazmin Sawyers

Lynsey Sharp

Lorraine Ugen

Jake Wightman

Olympic Podium Potential (26):

Elizabeth Bird

Emily Borthwick

Taylor Campbell

Harry Coppell

Melissa Courtney-Bryant

Oliver Dustin

Niamh Emerson

Tom Gale

Elliot Giles

Jake Heyward

Jessie Knight

Morgan Lake

Scott Lincoln

Eilish McColgan

Sophie McKinna

Naomi Metzger (née Ogbeta)

Lawrence Okoye

Aimee Pratt

Charlotte Purdue

Daniel Rowden

Marc Scott

Cindy Sember

Jessica Turner

Jamie Webb

Laura Weightman

Callum Wilkinson

Olympic Relays (16):

Kristal Awuah

Zoey Clark

Emily Diamond

Beth Dobbin

Zharnel Hughes

Richard Kilty

Imani-Lara Lansiquot

Nethaneel Mitchell-Blake

Daryll Neita

Ashleigh Nelson

Laviai Nielsen

Asha Philip

Ama Pipi

Reece Prescod

Jodie Williams

Nicole Yeargin

Olympic Confirmation Level (8):

Jeremiah Azu

Ellie Baker

Molly Caudery

Piers Copeland

Jona Efoloko

Jessica Mayho

Holly Mills

Thomas Randolph

19th October 2021 0 comment

TSF News

THE GAME CHANGERS TO RECEIVE SPORT ENGLAND FUNDING

written by Hugh

The Game Changers podcast, which celebrates trailblazing women in sport, is to receive Sport England National Lottery funding.

The grant will enable the producers, Fearless Women Ltd, to broaden the reach of the inspirational content, as they continue to share the stories of women who have challenged the status quo for women and girls everywhere.

“‘If you can’t see it, you can’t be it’ is a phrase we often hear in relation to female athletes” comments Sue Anstiss, host of the award-winning podcast and CEO of Fearless Women and the Women’s Sport Collective, “and the same is true for women across all sport.”

“We know that sharing life stories and experiences of trailblazers can be hugely impactful whether that’s hearing about the journeys of Olympians, Paralympians and World Champions or the career paths of women working across sport including coaches and officials, broadcasters and CEOs.

“In The Game Changers we get a glimpse into the lives of the most extraordinary women as they open up about the challenges they’ve faced and what they’ve learnt along the way.

‘I’ve had the privilege of talking to over 70 game changers for previous series and I’m incredibly excited about the opportunity to collaborate with the team at Sport England, as we shape the future direction of The Game Changers podcast, extending the reach across the next three series.”

The Game Changers is rated 5 stars across all podcast platforms, with over 100,000 downloads, and previous guests that include the likes of Katherine Grainger, Jill Scott, Tanni Grey-Thompson, Denise Lewis, Sally Munday, Emma Hayes, Clare Balding, Kate Richardson-Walsh, Sarah Storey, Judy Murray, Ali Oliver, Gabby Logan and Jessica Ennis-Hill.

The Game Changers is available free across all podcast platforms.

13th October 2021 0 comment

Motor Sports

Murray Walker: Incredible! A Tribute to a Formula 1 Legend by Maurice Hamilton

written by Hugh

A celebration of the extraordinary life of legendary commentator Murray Walker.

Murray was the voice of Formula 1 – he managed to the match the thrill of the track with his fast-paced and exhilarating commentary, delivering the euphoria of motor racing to millions. His broadcasting career spanned over 50 years, starting at Silverstone in 1949.

His natural warmth and infectious enthusiasm won great affection with audiences and everyone involved within motor racing. When he passed away earlier this year, tributes flooded in from every corner of the World. The book combines fond memories, never-before-told-stories and famous Murrayisms (e.g. ‘There’s nothing wrong with his car except that it’s on fire’).

The book is compiled by Murray’s great friend and colleague Maurice Hamilton, with contributions from drivers and industry figures and many friends from the world of motorsport and beyond. Maurice has been covering Formula 1 as a freelance journalist since 1977. He has attended more than 450 Grands Prix, including every race since 1984. He’s also the author of 19 books.

9th October 2021 0 comment

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