Pupils Follow in Steps Of Athens Olympians

The cream of athletics talent from Welsh schools will be put to the test on Sunday as they take to Cwmbran Stadium for the Norwich Union Sportshall Wales Final.

It is the breeding ground for tomorrow’s champions and many of today’s household names – including Lewis Francis and Sotherton - have been national champions of Sportshall athletics.

Not only will the rising talents by vying for podium places, they will also be bidding for a spot at the UK final which will be staged in Birmingham’s NEC arena on Saturday 12^th April.

Contested by teams representing the eight school districts across the nation, the victorious contingents in the under 13 and under 15 age-groups will then travel to Birmingham for a showdown against Scotland, Ulster and England.  

Welsh Athletics Development Manager Chris Moss explains, “The Welsh Sportshall Athletics Final is a culmination of events that have taken place across Wales. Thousands of children have taken part in these regional events and Sunday’s National Final will see the best of Welsh talent compete for top honours.

“The Sportshall Athletics programme, which takes place through the winter months, is a chance for those who would usually hang up their spikes for the winter to get back into a competitive athletic environment before the athletics season begins. The whole initiative is a great way for young athletes to develop their skills and enjoy athletics in a fun, safe environment. Simply by looking at past results, you can see the calibre of the athletes that have taken part in Sportshall Athletics –some have gone on to represent Great Britain at World Championships and Olympic Games.

The Norwich Union Sportshall UK Championships are now into their 25^th year.  Sportshall provides an indoor multi-event competition helping budding athletes to develop athletics based skills. Traditional events are introduced in adapted forms suitable for the indoor environment.