Excitement builds ahead of National Junior Para Athletics
The stage is set for a celebration of talent and inclusion as the National Junior Para Athletics Championships returns to Coventry on 4 and 5 July, bringing together 100 of the UK’s best young disabled athletes.
The Championships is delivered by the national charity and leading voice for disabled people in sports and activities, Activity Alliance, and supported by Lions Club International. It promises to be a thrilling showcase of emerging talent, competing in a wide range of track and field events. For many, it will be their first experience of high-level competition. For others, a key milestone on their journey through the para-athletics pathway.
The event highlights the huge potential of young disabled people when given the right opportunities to take part in sport.
John Amaechi OBE, Activity Alliance’s Vice President, said:
“This event is about so much more than medals. It is about young disabled athletes enjoying a major sporting occasion, supporting one another, making memories, and gaining a real sense of belonging. I cannot wait to join the crowd in cheering everyone on and thanking the volunteers who make this event possible.”
Positive sporting experience
The Championships come at a crucial time. Activity Alliance research continues to show that disabled children and young people remain less active than their non-disabled peers, often due to barriers such as inaccessible provision, low confidence, and lack of opportunities. Events like this are vital in changing perceptions and providing meaningful, positive sporting experiences.
Young people who have positive early experiences are more likely to stay active for life, improving not only physical health but also confidence, independence, and social connections.
Published in November 2025, the Play, Move, Belong study explores young disabled and non-disabled people’s experiences and perceptions of sport and physical activity across the UK. It found:
- Despite challenges, eight in ten (85%) young disabled people say they like or love being active, driven by a desire to stay healthy, have fun, and build confidence.
- Young disabled and non-disabled people are equally as likely to say they want to be more active (43%), and parents share this ambition. More than half (55%) of parents of disabled children wish their child could take part in more activity.
Fantastic atmosphere for everyone involved
As athletes prepare to take to the track, the Championships will also bring together families, coaches, and supporters. Creating a fantastic atmosphere that celebrates every achievement.
Like brother and sister Freddie and Penny. The impact on both children has been remarkable. Penny, once hesitant about running, has found her strengths in speed and especially in jumping. At her athletics club, she is now one of the top under-11 long jumpers.
Freddie has flourished, too. He has gone on to reach national finals in cross country, proving that with the right support system, talent and determination can shine in extraordinary ways.
“We’re really excited to take part. I want to do my best, meet other athletes like me, and have fun being part of a big event.”
Their Mum agrees:
“This event is so important. It gives young athletes confidence and shows them what’s possible. The impact goes far beyond the competition itself.”
Support from sponsors and funders is vital to making inclusive events like the National Junior Para Athletics Championships possible. By partnering with Activity Alliance, companies can help remove barriers, create more opportunities for young disabled athletes, and be part of building a future where all disabled people feel they belong in sports and activities.
As the countdown continues, excitement is growing for what promises to be a powerful and uplifting event, celebrating the next generation of para-athletics stars.
Event details
- Venue: Coventry Athletics Track, Warwick University, Kirby Corner Road, Coventry, CV4 8AH.
- Date: Saturday 4 and Sunday 5 July 2026.
Approximate session timings
- Saturday 4 July 2026: 10am - 4pm
- Sunday 5 July 2026: 9am - 1pm
