England Athletics is always looking to bring new ideas to the table to enhance the experience of everyone involved in our sport and 2023 has been a particularly creative year.  Take a look at some of the innovative work that has taken place and helped us make huge positive strides forward in all key focus areas of the England Athletics strategy.

In May 2021, England Athletics launched a 12-year strategic plan following extensive consultation with multiple stakeholders from across the sport. Putting athletes and runners at the heart, the strategic plan focuses on creating opportunities, enhancing experiences and powering potential. The overarching purpose of the strategic plan is to inspire more athletes and runners of all abilities and backgrounds to fulfil their potential and to have a lifelong love for the sport, with a clear vision for athletics to become a more inclusive sport where everyone belongs and can flourish. Two and a half years on, we are pleased to present a snapshot of progress within our key focus areas.

On behalf of everyone at England Athletics, we wanted to thank you all for everything that you have committed to our great sport during 2023. We also wish you and your close ones a very happy holiday season, and hope you are able to recharge your batteries ahead of an action packed 2024 athletics and running season across England.

Have you heard of the England Athletics Talent Hubs? This Christmas we’re celebrating the fantastic work of the England Athletics family, and today we’re taking a deeper dive into the world of performance athletics and running. Whether you have never heard of the Talent Hubs or want to learn more about how you can benefit from their services, we’re here to explain it all! 

For cross country runners, the annual British Cross Challenge at Sefton Park is a staple on the calendar, knowing that plenty of mud and an exciting day of races is in store. And this years’ British Athletics Cross Challenge in Liverpool was no different. Past Olympians and future stars were on show as the action kicked off.

The England Athletics indoor track and field season is just around the corner and we have all the details to date that you might need. As each events draws nearer, we will add links to buy tickets, coach accrediation and updated timetables. All three championships will take place at the EIS in Sheffield.

It is with great sadness that we pass on the news of the death of Judith Temperton at the weekend. Judith was the NOEAA Competition Manager, and also a much loved and respected Level 4 Endurance official. She gave an enormous amount to the sport and especially to the North of England with the well-being of athletes and athletics as her priority. The heartbeat of Northern Athletics, she was a real stalwart and the go-to person regarding anything athletics. She could always be relied upon and always willing to help - full of common sense with a wicked sense of humour.

The English contingent travelled out to a sunny Spain last weekend to compete in the 41st edition of the Cross Italica in Seville. Now part of the World Athletics Cross County Gold Level series, this prestigious race moved to earlier in the calendar this year which proved advantageous for the English athletes who will be battling for GB spots at the upcoming Liverpool British Cross Challenge on the 25 November.

Despite it raining throughout the day on Saturday, the weather certainly didn’t dampen spirits at the 2023 English National Cross-Country Relays on bonfire weekend.  The crowd lined the course to show their support, club mates were seen cheering across all age group races and the camaraderie was better than ever. 

As the temperature drops and the nights draw in, athletes and coaches at Lincoln Wellington Athletic Club start to look forward to the cross country season. The highlight of the season for many is the English National Cross Country Relays that take place in Mansfield every year, just a short drive away from Lincoln. Hear from Lincoln Wellington member, Rhiannon Philps as she shares her excitement ahead of the weekend.