funetics multi-challenge

England Athletics is launching an exciting new competition format, funetics multi-challenge, to encourage more regular, age-appropriate opportunities for primary school aged children to compete in athletics. With pilot competitions being planned and delivered by a number of clubs and associations across the country, clubs and athletics associations can still be part of the pilot phase. 

Building on the success of Sportshall Athletics indoors, we want more primary aged children to experience an inclusive and accessible start to their competitive journeys, with a focus on enjoyment, being part of a team and individual improvement. 

Expanding the funetics programme, which helps 4-11-year-old children across the country develop their fundamental movement skills of running, jumping and throwing, funetics multi-challenge is our new, competition format that allows regular competition in a safe and fun environment.   

With the upcoming age group changes, funetics multi-challenge will provide budding athletes, particularly U10s and U12s, the opportunity to start competing and developing their skills.      

What you need to know:

• The challenge format is reflective of the age of the participants and encourages early engagement with athletics.  
• The challenges are scored and managed using Roster. 
• funetics multi-challenge won’t be licensed competitions but will be nationally coordinated and endorsed by England Athletics 
• funetics multi-challenge is currently being piloted across several clubs and associations in England with the idea of expanding it far and wide in 2026. Pilots include:
  • Hampshire Athletics Association 
  • Athletics Norfolk 
  • Gateshead Harriers/North East
  • Aspire to Greatness 

Get in touch

If you’re an athletics club or athletic association looking to lead the way and welcome the next generation of athletes, please do get in touch and find out how you can get involved: trackandfieldproject@englandathletics.org.