ASPIRING athletes from the district are set to gain vital support as part of a sports talent development programme.
Everyone Active’s Sporting Champions scheme, celebrating its tenth anniversary this year, has helped more than 6,000 athletes achieve their sporting potential by providing free access to its centres.
These include leisure centres in Stratford, Shipston, Southam, Studley and Alcester, all run in partnership with Stratford District Council.
This year, a record 1,700 athletes have been accepted on the scheme. Among those to secure their places in Stratford district is 24 year-old fencer Olympios Gougoulias who has medalled at British Championships and represents Great Britain, currently ranking sixth in Great Britain for seniors.
This season, Olympios hopes to qualify for the World and European Championships in the hopes of reaching his dreams of competing at the Olympics.
Joining her is 17 year-old athlete Sam Lambert, ranked first in the U17 10k road. Sam has been selected to represent England athletics in the youth talent programme.
Also benefiting from the scheme is Sam Craig, a 35-year-old Stratford HYROX athlete who broke the British record with the fastest solo time ever recorded in the UK at Birmingham’s NEC in October. Sam is now aiming to win the 2026 European Championships.
Alongside free access to Everyone Active leisure centres, Sporting Champions will also receive mentoring and guidance from a panel of elite athletes including Olympic and Paralympic medalists.
At the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, no fewer than 26 Sporting Champions competed, taking home nine gold, six silver and eight bronze medals collectively.
SDC’s neighbourhood spokesperson Coun Lorraine Grocott said: “It is fantastic to see athletes from across Stratford district recognised through this prestigious programme. Their dedication, hard work and achievements are an inspiration to our communities and help encourage more people to get involved in sport and physical activity.”
