Karé Adenegan named ambassador for Junior Para Athletics Championships

A long-time supporter of the Championships, Karé competed at the event throughout her junior career and credits it as an important part of her development as an athlete.

As the inaugural ambassador, Karé will help champion the event, inspiring more young disabled people to discover the opportunities athletics can offer while celebrating the unique role the Championships play in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for all.

Reflecting on her experiences, Karé said:

"I've competed there for around 10 years and it was always a highlight in my season as a junior athlete. I've found it to be such an amazing event because it allows us to race with people of a similar age group, have some really competitive races and, really, it's just a great celebration of inclusive sport."

The National Junior Para Athletics Championships provides opportunities for young disabled athletes from across the UK to compete against others of a similar age and ability, whether they are taking their first steps in athletics or progressing along a performance pathway.

For Karé, the atmosphere is what makes the event truly special.

"There's very much a sense of community. We're all coming from all over the region, all over the nation, coming together and competing. It's a very friendly, warm and welcoming environment. The event is one of those places where you can really enjoy yourself and have fun. It is a competition, but there's also that sense of celebrating sport."

Having gone on to represent Great Britain and win Paralympic medals, Karé believes the Championships strike an important balance between welcoming newcomers and providing valuable competition for aspiring elite athletes.

She added:

"Some people will be at their first event, while others might already be on a performance pathway or have represented Great Britain. That's what's special, there isn't that sense of separation. Everybody races together."

Karé is also passionate about encouraging young disabled athletes who may be considering entering for the first time.

"I'd encourage them to do it. Don't be worried, don't be nervous, come and know that there will be something for you. Everybody will cheer you on to the finish line."

Although now competing in senior competition, Karé continues to value the Championships as an important fixture in the athletics calendar with open age races taking place at each event.

"Even now that I'm not a junior athlete, it's still really great to have the opportunity to race because we don't have a lot of competitions in the calendar. I'm really grateful that Activity Alliance continues to provide that opportunity for more people to compete."

Jannine Walker, Head of Events and Programmes at Activity Alliance, said:

"We're delighted to welcome Kare as the first-ever ambassador for the National Junior Para Athletics Championships. Kare has experienced the Championships first-hand, from competing as a junior athlete to becoming one of Britain's leading Paralympians. Her passion for the event, combined with her commitment to encouraging the next generation, makes her the perfect ambassador. We hope her story inspires even more young disabled people to get involved, challenge themselves and enjoy everything the Championships have to offer."

The National Junior Para Athletics Championships continue to provide competitive opportunities, build confidence and create lasting friendships for young disabled athletes across the UK. With Karé joining as the event's first ambassador, Activity Alliance looks forward to inspiring even more young people to discover the joy of athletics.