The official launch of the Sussex Athletics Network was held at K2 in Crawley on Friday 25th September with the Chairman of England Athletics, John Graves, presenting a cheque to Zoe Mckinnon, Co-ordinator for the Network. Three of the County’s top athletes - Matt Lasis, Joe Kent and Seb Rodger, who have all competed internationally this year, were there to give their support, along with Peter Masters who is Chairman of the Network Executive Group.
The Sussex Athletics Network is one of several Networks across the country which has obtained funding by Sport England with sponsorship from McCain. It aims to increase participation and raise standards in all areas of athletics within the County by getting those involved to share skills and resources. Co-ordinator, Zoe, has been working since April to establish what is needed by those in the sport and develop an annual plan which is well underway now. A website has been set up which contains details of all the Network’s activities, plus useful information gathered by Zoe :www.sussexathleticsnetwork.org.uk.
Athletics Coaches, Officials and Club members from across Sussex were invited to attend the launch evening which continued with forums being held for each group, and guest speakers giving talks and inviting discussions on various topics. At the end of the evening there were presentations by Elspeth Turner of England Athletics to some clubs and individuals for specific achievements. Afterwards a prize draw took place with a donation from Brooks Running, a place in the Brighton Marathon and two tickets to ‘The Hall of Fame’ evening being won by three of the attendees. The evening provided a useful networking opportunity for those involved in the sport, and will lead to more such gatherings in the future.
