Cookies help our website to remember you and your preferences. For more information or to update your cookie settings, please go to our privacy policy.

Accept Decline
Skip to content.

The national charity and leading voice for disabled people in sport and activity

Menu. Open and close this menu with the ENTER key.

Young athletes shine at National Junior Para Athletics Championships

More than 100 young disabled athletes from across the UK and Ireland came together this weekend for two memorable days of competition at the 2026 National Junior Para Athletics Championships.

A young boy does the long jump into a sand pit at at the National Junior Para Athletics Championships.

Hosted by Activity Alliance at Coventry Athletics Track, the annual championships featured a full programme of track and field events, giving athletes of all ages and abilities the opportunity to compete in a welcoming and inclusive environment.

This year's event also saw Paralympic silver medallist Kare Adenegan announced as the Championships' new ambassador. Alongside supporting athletes throughout the weekend, Kare competed in the 100m, 400m and 800m.

Kare Adenegan in her racing wheelchair on track at the 2026 National Junior Para Athletics Championships.For Manchester Harriers athlete Joe, the championships were an unforgettable first experience. Competing in the 100m, he finished third while setting a personal best of 12.75 seconds.

"It was my first time here and I'm so happy to be here," Joe said. "Everyone has been so welcoming. It feels like a mini Paralympics – the atmosphere has been amazing, and I can't wait to come back."

Teams travelled from across England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland, including Bradford Keighley and Skipton Disability Athletics Club, who brought a team of 11 athletes.

Coach Anne-Marie said: "Every athlete looks forward to coming here because they're racing against their peers and getting the competition they need to improve. We've already seen personal bests this weekend."

She added: "What makes this event so special is that everyone cheers for each other. We're a team, we're a family, and it doesn't matter which club you're from – everyone celebrates each other's success."

Across two days of competition, athletes celebrated medals, personal bests and first experiences on the national stage, while families, coaches, officials and volunteers created a fantastic atmosphere from the first event to the last.

The National Junior Para Athletics Championships continue to provide meaningful competition opportunities for disabled athletes, helping more people experience the joy, confidence and sense of belonging that sport can bring.