Mike Leonard: 1954-2022

It is with great sadness we mourn the loss of our friend and colleague Mike Leonard who passed away last Sunday following a recent illness.

Mike has been a cornerstone of the England Athletics Speed Team for several years, whether it be mentoring on the NCDP, being a Talent Event Lead for the JTP or being a Regional Coach Lead for the South-East and Midlands.

Mike has been an active and regular presence in the delivery of our sprint’s development work for athletes and coaches on our talent pathway for many years as a coach lead and mentor and was hugely respected for his knowledge and experience. His kindness, modesty, collaborative, and empathetic approach will be missed by us all and specifically by those who worked directly with him and who were impacted through his immense contribution to our sport.

Mike spent most of his coaching career at Marshall Milton Keynes where he became part of the fabric of the club and its coaching set up. Athletes and coaches alike will miss the impact of such an excellent person and mentor.

Mike had relocated further North in recent years from Milton Keynes where he had coached for many years the likes of International athletes such as Craig Pickering and Joey Duck amongst others.

We are forever grateful for his contribution to the sport and beyond, and our thoughts are with his family during this sad time.

Photo by Mark Shearman