ASPIRING athletes have a chance to become sports stars with a new talent boosting scheme.  

Up-and-coming athletes in Buckinghamshire are encouraged to apply to become ‘Sporting Champions’ as part of a sports talent development scheme by leisure company Everyone Active.

Previous Sporting Champions include Olympic silver medallist and current scheme ambassador Colin Jackson, who will provide mentoring to the Sporting Champions alongside some Team GB athletes.

Mr Jackson said: “I’m proud to be involved in a scheme that is so dedicated to supporting athletic talent from grass roots up.

“I have watched the Sporting Champions scheme grow over the years and I’m so excited to continue working alongside a panel of truly talented elite athletes to help mentor and support the next generation.

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“The Sporting Champions scheme has helped thousands of up-and-coming athletes to achieve their sporting dreams and I can’t wait to see what this year’s intake go on to achieve.”

As part of the Sporting Champions programme, athletes of all ages will get free access to hundreds of leisure centres, including Chilterns Lifestyle Centre, Chalfont Leisure Centre, Chesham Leisure Centre, Aqua Vale Swimming and Fitness Centre, and Swan Pool and Fitness Centre in Buckinghamshire.

Over seven years, the scheme has supported decorated Olympians and Paralympians such as Lutalo Muhammad, Jennifer and Jessica Gadirova, Richard Kilty, Lauren Steadman, Kadeena Cox and Maisie Summers-Newton.  

The elite athletes continue to provide their support to the next generation of sports talent.

Online application form is open from February 13 to March 13.