UP-AND-coming athletes in Warwick district are set to be put through their paces by Olympians.
Table tennis player Boryana Nankova, who won gold at the World Transplant Games last year, and powerlifter and javelin thrower Lauren Ashbourne, who was recently ranked the third best senior javelin thrower in the Midlands, have both been selected for Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme.
Now in its eighth year, the scheme has helped more than 5,000 athletes to achieve their sporting potential by providing free access to Everyone Active’s leisure facilities.
They also receive valuable mentoring and guidance from an impressive panel of elite athletes, some of whom look set to compete at Paris 2024.
The scheme’s all-star line-up of decorated Olympians and Paralympians includes Jennifer and Jessica Gadirova, Lutalo Muhammad, Richard Kilty, Lauren Steadman and Maisie Summers-Newton, while new to the panel for 2024 is GB sprint star Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.
These elite athletes will share their experience and expertise through group mentoring sessions, covering topics including mental wellbeing, nutrition, managing finances, social media and media training.
Olympic silver medallist Colin Jackson will also continue to support the scheme through his role as an ambassador, working alongside the elite athletes to make sport more accessible within local communities.
The Sporting Champions scheme has poured more than £2million into young athletes across the country, proving its commitment to grassroots sporting excellence.
At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, no fewer than 30 Sporting Champions competed, taking home five gold, two silver and three bronze medals.
Warwick District Council leisure spokesperson Coun Jim Sinnott said: “The council is proud to support this inspiring scheme, helping aspiring athletes from the local area to realise their potential by providing free access to excellent facilities close to home with the added benefits of a strong network of expertise and mentorship opportunities.”
To find out more visit www.easportingchampions.com
