Steeplechase development events increases participation

Steeplechase is an event that England Athletics is committed to developing, so we have delivered a number of development workshops for both coaches and athletes. This focus has enabled more athletes to compete by providing developmental opportunities in league and national competitions - which has led to an increase in participants.

Development and training days

Last month, Elswick Harriers delivered a brilliant development day for athletes and coaches. 18 athletes and coaches enjoyed a day at Hexham Leisure Centre where they were taught drills, technique, and progression for steeplechase. Endurance Coach at Elswick, Justin Durham, was delighted with the engagement and skill set. Many of these athletes then went on a week later, to compete in a steeplechase race for the first time, and all are eager to race again.

David Cripps continues to advocate for the development of steeplechase and recently ran a training day at Bury St. Edmunds Leisure Centre. The day concentrated on barrier clearance and water jump skills, with a filled water jump available for athletes to use. Annually he hosts a festival which also included race walks and flat races for all ages to compete at. The Suffolk Steeplechase Festival in May was well attended and successful - Ava James ran the World U20 steeplechase qualification standard at the festival. She beat the standard again at the Loughborough International - along with Dillion Millard.

Further opportunities for steeplechasers

The England Athletics Youth Talent Programme (YTP) had the largest number of steeplechasers recruited this year, with past athletes going on to win English Schools' AA medals and being selected for Junior international teams.

If any club, coach or athlete would like to discuss the opportunities available please contact Hayley Hemmings at hhemmings@englandathletics.org.