Maddie Turner, currently studying for her A levels at St Swithun’s, has been selected for a place on the Athletics Academy in Sporting Excellence programme.
The programme is part of the British Athletics Performance Pathway for young athletes aged 16-18, offering them the opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills required to become a senior international athlete.
Turner, who has traditionally competed in the 300m hurdles, is now starting to race over 400m hurdles as part of her learning.
‘I cannot wait for my first regional camp,” said Turner. “I am really excited to begin the workshops and look forward to seeing how much I can improve over the next two years.”
The 17-year-old was invited to apply for the course after placing 13th in the country for her event in national rankings. The academy will grant her access to a nutritionist, psychologist and mentor, as well as providing workshops on such topics as clean athletics and career planning. At the end of the two years, she will have earned a sporting excellence diploma.
