Kick-starting the season at County Champs
This weekend marked a major milestone in the athletics calendar, as County Championships across England took place.
With the majority of the country bathed in glorious May sunshine, the championships provided a fantastic showcase of athletic ability, as well as dedication from the teams of volunteers at each venue, without whom such events simply could not take place.
Chris Jones, England Athletics CEO, said:
"We’ve enjoyed a brilliant weekend, with young athletes taking centre stage. As ever, giving them the opportunity to do that were our volunteers, who contribute enormous amounts to our sport. Our team at England Athletics were able to get out and about to assist and speak to some of our volunteers and officials – along with athletes and parents – are we are incredibly grateful for their continued contribution to our sport."
Nichola Skedgel, England Athletics Competition and Partnership Manager, added:
"Our staff were thrilled to be on site at different events across the weekend, speaking to athletes, parents, coaches, officials and clubs. There really is no other place like an event for people to openly ask questions and discuss ideas, especially when we enjoyed the weather that we did this weekend."
"The County Championships are an integral part of an athlete’s competition pathway, especially for the younger children as it is often their first experience of a championship environment."
"Many athletes – whether elite or not – still fondly remember competing at their County Championships. Each year we offer a small grant to the County AAs to help towards the cost of these events, to ensure everyone has that great experience remembered fondly by athletes that have gone before them."
"We look forward to the summer where we will be incorporating the CAU Championships into the England U20 and Senior Championships on the July 19, 20 and 21 at Alexander Stadium, continuing our commitment to support the county pathway and team opportunity, which is so important for the athletes.
"We would like to thank everyone for their warm welcome and hospitality and we look forward to attending some more County Championships in 2025."
See how the champs went in our video round up
Competition grants
The closing date for County AAs to apply for a competition grant for the coming year is 31 May.