A strong team of young athletes will represent the Isle of Man at the English Schools’ Athletics Championships over the weekend.
The annual championships bring together the best school-age athletes from across England and affiliated regions.
Action begins tomorrow morning with Sophie Kaighin in the 75m Hurdles Junior Girls at 10:01am, followed by Issy Kennaugh in the 100m Junior Girls at 10:16am.
Athletics Champs
Both sprinters have enjoyed strong seasons locally and are looking to carry that momentum into national-level races.
At 11:40am, Christopher Crompton-Heavey will take on the Discus Junior Boys, representing the island in the throws circle.
With strength and focus, Christopher has developed a solid technique that could see him challenge for a personal best.
Fast Paced
Taylor Kneen competes next in the 300m Junior Boys at 11:52am. Known for his powerful finishes, Taylor has a strong competitive streak and will be eager to make an impression in this fast-paced one-lap event.
In the Pole Vault Intermediate Boys at 12:55pm, Zac Woodward returns to a national-level stage.
Having already competed at the Manchester Indoor Vault Championships, Zac brings valuable championship experience into this event.
A calm and consistent performer, his steady progress this season suggests he’s ready to aim high — both literally and competitively.
Strong Results
Following that, Alan Stobart lines up for the 200m Intermediate Boys at 2:16pm.
A dynamic and technically sharp sprinter, Alan has delivered strong results throughout the season and will be looking to make a mark in this classic sprint event.
At 2:32pm, Harry Stennett will take on the 3000m Intermediate Boys. No stranger to national competition, Harry previously represented the Isle of Man at the English Schools’ Fell Running Championships.
His endurance and tactical awareness make him a strong contender in this highly competitive distance event.
National Spotlight
Rory Turner returns to the national spotlight in the 400m Hurdles Intermediate Boys at 3:26pm.
Having worked hard to return from injury, Rory has shown great resilience and form this season and this is more than just a race, it’s a personal victory to reach this standard, with his eyes set firmly on qualification standards and a strong race performance.
Minutes later at 3:30pm, Lara Smith will compete in the Pole Vault Intermediate Girls. Lara is the current Isle of Man women’s record holder in the event — a remarkable accomplishment at her age.
She combines bravery and precision in her vaulting and brings great consistency into this year’s championships.
Track Events
Max Hammal closes Friday’s track events with the 1500m Intermediate Boys at 4:47pm.
Known for his fluid running style and tactical pacing, Max will aim to navigate what is traditionally one of the most tightly contested middle-distance races on the programme.
On Saturday (July 12), the island’s competition wraps up with Mustafa Guner in the Triple Jump Intermediate Boys at 10am.
Mustafa’s strength and rhythm in this technically demanding event have earned him his first ESAA appearance, and he’ll be targeting a confident series of jumps.
With a blend of experience, raw talent, and determination, this year’s Isle of Man squad is set to compete with pride on one of the biggest youth athletics stages in the UK.
Whether chasing personal bests, national standards, or simply the thrill of championship competition, each athlete will carry the island’s hopes with them as they step onto the track or into the field.
4 Comments