The next generation of athletes are feeling freshly motivated after UK Athletics (UKA) announced it had turned a profit for the first time in eight years.
In 2023 it was reported that the governing body had a record annual loss of £3.7m.
This marked a challenging period of covid-related setbacks and reduced sponsorships meaning UK athletics were to be reconstructed internally.
Two years post reconstruction the governing body have delivered a surplus of £107,588.
For local coaches, athletes and clubs, the news has sparked optimism that more investment could soon flow into grassroots programmes.
Dave McManus, local athletics coach, has said, “the announcement has already lifted morale within our training sessions”.
“The U13 athletes in particular have started talking about their dreams of competing on the national stage and becoming olympians again”.
“As we as coaches hope that this new funding could help strengthen local talent and draw more attention to the sport” he added.
Alongside the reconstruction of UK athletics, UKA also struck a deal with the organisers of the London Marathon and Great North Run in 2024.
All coming together to tackle the financial crisis.
This marks a milestone many in the sport hope will mean the start of a new era of stability and growth.
Dave McManus added, “I just hope the momentum continues, we have had a real increase in numbers over the last month and it is really lovely to see”.
As the governing body prepares for the winter season, coaches like Dave hope the progress persists to inspire children at all levels.
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