The promising young athletes getting support from medal-winning sportspeople
Young athletes across Three Rivers are set to gain vital support as part of a national sports talent development programme.
The scheme, run by Everyone Active, is now in its ninth year and has helped more than 7,000 athletes reach their sporting potential.
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The initiative provides free access to more than 230 leisure facilities, including South Oxhey Leisure Centre, William Penn Leisure Centre, and Rickmansworth Golf Course.
This year's selected athletes from Three Rivers represent a diverse range of sports, including swimming, football, and cross-country running.
Among the chosen athletes are 11-year-old Arthur Mee and Summer Evason from Croxley Green.
Arthur Mee. (Image: Everyone Active) Arthur plays for the Tottenham Hotspur Academy and recently represented Watford FC Trust at the regional finals of the Utilia Cup.
Summer is a promising swimmer and runner who came fifth in the country at the 400m individual medley at the national swimming championships.
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As part of the scheme, these athletes will receive mentoring and guidance from world and Commonwealth champions, and Olympic and Paralympic medallists.
The panel includes athletes like Richard Kilty, Lauren Steadman, Maisie Summers-Newton, and Harry Aikines-Aryeetey.
New to the panel for 2025 is Team GB cyclist Emma Finucane.
Summer Evason. (Image: Everyone Active) John Sewell, Everyone Active's contract manager for Three Rivers, said: "We're so proud to see such a strong line-up of local athletes joining the Sporting Champions scheme this year.
"It's fantastic to know that our centres are playing a role in nurturing these rising stars, supporting their development both in and out of competition."
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Councillor Chris Lloyd, Three Rivers District Council's lead member for leisure, added: "We are incredibly excited for all the amazing talent we have in the district to take full advantage of this scheme.
"It's great to see that some aspiring athletes are returning to the scheme and I wish them the best of luck for future competitions."
Alongside the mentoring and guidance, the scheme also includes hands-on workshops and webinars in collaboration with national governing bodies.
These sessions aim to equip the young athletes with practical tools and techniques to excel in their respective sports.
For more information about the initiative, visit ea-champions.com/sporting-champions.
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