Andrew Hopkin

UK Athletics

Athletics is where it all begins. Learning to run, push, jump and throw is the foundation for a lifetime of activity. From playground to podium our sport offers everybody, irrespective of size, shape, colour or ability, the opportunity to achieve great things and to live a healthier and happier life. Our dream is that no matter who you are you can find potential in our sport as part of an inclusive, physically active nation. We believe that every child should be able to see themselves succeeding in athletics, on the podium, or in a lifelong love of the sport and as part of the community. Athletics is the most accessible sport, and we must continue to remove every barrier that we can improving people's lives through athletics, running, and pushing. Race, gender, ability, background and culture should be no barrier to thriving in Athletics. UK Athletics delivers the showcase moments that drive and enable participation at every level enabling everybody to achieve their best potential. The World Class Programme is just one part of our portfolio of work, but the opportunity that it provides to drive participation and engagement must be maximised and that is our role. UK Athletics is embarking upon a new era, a new way of working and a new strategic plan. There is a clear purpose which drives us all, in partnership with the CEOs of the Home Country Athletics Federations to ensure that Athletics in the UK has a positive impact on society.