My Story

I am running for children's charity Youth Sport Trust to make a difference to the health and happiness of future generations, transforming the lives of young people through the power of play and sport.

Throughout my childhood sport was a major part of my life and I was lucky enough to have access to lots of different sporting activities where I found I could learn important life skills such as teamwork, resilience, accountability, respect and patience, whilst also building my self esteem and confidence through my sporting achievements and accomplishments. 

As an adult sport has continued to be pivotal to me in terms of maintaining my physical and mental health. During lockdown of 2020, when I found myself unable to participate in my usual team sports, I took up running and since then it has become a huge passion of mine and my ultimate goal is to achieve a sub 3 hour marathon time, a goal I hope to realise at London 2024 whilst running for Youth Sport Trust.

Sport should be inclusive for all children, I am passionate about that, my son has quite complex learning difficulties, so I understand the challenges that some children face when taking part in physical activities and team games. 

The work that Youth Sport Trust does is so crucial in promoting and encouraging all children whatever challenges they face, with the opportunity to take part in sport and activities that would otherwise be lost to them.

Youth Sport Trust equips educators and empowers young people with the vision of creating a future where every child enjoys the life-changing benefits of play and sport.

Play and sport help children to build friendships, empathy and understanding. They develop their social skills and find a place to belong in the world. The context of sport can offer both freedom and responsibility through a less structured, more safe and informal space where they can learn life lessons. Learning how to move with confidence and competence builds self-esteem and a positive self-image. Being physically active directly impacts on mood, concentration and helps with learning. All of this transfers directly into the classroom and life after education.

We know the power of play and sport to change lives, but many aren’t making this connection. We cannot create change alone, we need as many people as possible to help us reclaim play and sport in children’s lives.

There is a crisis in young people's wellbeing, with rising numbers reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression, alongside a decline in levels of physical activity. Youth Sport Trust is fighting to help all young people tackle the issues they face in today's world.

Please donate and make a difference. Together we're transforming lives through sport and play. #TeamYST