Five athletes from the South West region have been named in the 98-strong squad selected to represent Novuna Great Britain and Northern Ireland (GB & NI) at the European Athletics Championships, which will take place in Birmingham from 10 to 16 August.
The athletes representing the South West include Innes Fitzgerald from Beer, Devon, competing in the women’s 5000m; Poppy Tank from Plymouth, set to take part in the 10,000m; Elise Thorner from Somerset, a Commonwealth Games silver medallist participating in the 3000m steeplechase; Aleeya Sibbons based in Bath, who is part of the 4x100m relay team; and two athletes from Bristol, Ben Jefferies in the men’s 400m and Will Battershill competing in the men’s 3000m steeplechase.
This year marks the debut of the European Athletics Championships on British soil, hosted at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium. The selection reflects Novuna GB & NI’s commitment to maintaining its position as a leading European athletics nation. The focus is on athletes capable of medalling while also gaining valuable championship experience.
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Notably, the Novuna GB & NI team is set to compete in all relay events, including the mixed 4x100m relay, making its championship debut. The women’s 4x100m team enters the competition as reigning champions.
Performance Director Paula Dunn commented on the squad’s selection:
“Congratulations to all the athletes selected to represent Novuna Great Britain & Northern Ireland at this summer’s European Championships. Competing at a major championship is a tremendous achievement and even more special with the event held on home soil at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium, a venue familiar to many of these athletes.
This team showcases the strength and depth of talent within British track and field, combining experienced international medallists with a promising group of emerging athletes.
Performing in front of family, friends and passionate British fans offers a unique opportunity, one I am confident the team will embrace. A home championship allows us to showcase the very best of our sport, inspire the next generation, and create memorable moments for the country.
I would also like to thank the athlete support teams, coaches, families, and friends who have helped all 98 athletes prepare for this event, as well as the National Lottery players whose continued support benefits elite and grassroots athletics across the UK.
I am certain this team will represent Great Britain & Northern Ireland with great pride in Birmingham this summer.”
The full Novuna Great Britain and Northern Ireland team includes a broad selection of athletes across track, field, and road events for both men and women, involving established stars and upcoming talent set to compete over the week of championships.