Croydon athletes secure record £100k in sports funding

Amara Hughes 2026-06-09 10:57 2 min read

Wide angle view of a professional running track and stadium seating area.

A record-breaking 140 athletes from across Croydon have been selected for support by the GLL Sport Foundation this year. The announcement, made during a ceremony at Ashburton Hall, confirms a total investment of over £100,000 to assist local sportspeople with the costs of training, equipment, and competition fees.

Supporting the next generation of talent

The GLL Sport Foundation (GSF) has operated since 2008, growing into the largest independent athlete support programme in the UK. By providing financial aid alongside free access to Better leisure centres, the foundation aims to remove the financial barriers that often hinder progress in competitive sports. This year’s recipients represent a wide range of disciplines, with a notable concentration of talent in track and field events including running, javelin, and hurdles.

Croydon athletes secure record £100k in sports funding

Real-world impact for local athletes

For athletes like 29-year-old wheelchair rugby player Ryan Raghoo, the support offers a practical solution to balancing training with daily life. “Being supported by the GSF will be a massive help,” says Raghoo, a Croydon native. “It will allow me to train three or four times a week for free and hire badminton courts to practise agility and speed. Having access to these facilities is a game-changer.”

Fellow recipient Desharne Bent-Ashmeil, a 22-year-old champion diver currently studying in the United States, noted that the funding is vital for managing international travel costs. “Diving requires strength, flexibility and agility so it’s also fantastic to be able to go to the gym at my local Better leisure centres and also take part in Pilates classes,” she added.

Strengthening Croydon’s sporting infrastructure

David Hughes, GLL’s Partnership Manager for Croydon, confirmed that the programme is central to the organisation’s mission to deepen opportunities for young athletes. The funding ensures that residents have access to the borough’s four major leisure centres, athletics track, and over 30 tennis courts. Councillor Robert Ward, Cabinet Member for Parks and Culture, attended the awards to acknowledge the contribution of families, coaches, and community workers who support these athletes throughout their development.

Source: Croydon Council

Context & actions About this article

Source check Verified Local Report

This article was cross-referenced with the official Croydon Council announcement regarding the GLL Sport Foundation 2026 awards.

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