Talented athletes across Richmond upon Thames are set to benefit from a significant boost to their sporting journeys, as the GLL Sport Foundation (GSF) announces its 2026 award recipients.
The GSF is the ‘brainchild’ of charitable social enterprise leisure provider GLL, which operates two leisure facilities in the borough under the ‘Better’ brand – including Pools on the Park.
This year, 49 athletes from Richmond will receive a combined £36,290 in financial and training support, reinforcing the Foundation’s commitment to helping local talent thrive.
The cohort highlights the strength and diversity of sport across the borough, with athletes representing disciplines including athletics, swimming, hockey, fencing, rowing, triathlon and kayaking. Those supported range from emerging young athletes to experienced international competitors.
Local recipients include Olympian Fiona Crackles (hockey), international athlete Adelle Tracey (athletics), and rising talents such as Alice Bloch (triathlon) and Joshua Gilbert (athletics), all of whom will benefit from tailored support to help them progress in their sporting careers
A large proportion of this year’s Richmond athletes receive no other form of funding, underlining the vital role the programme plays in helping athletes meet the rising costs associated with training, equipment, travel and competition.
Now in its 18th year, the GSF is the UK’s largest independent athlete award programme, having contributed nearly £20 million in support and helped almost 35,000 athletes across 69 areas and 121 sports.
The Foundation supports athletes through a combination of financial bursaries, access to physical rehabilitation and mental wellbeing services, and free access to over 250 Better sport and leisure facilities nationwide.
This year’s Richmond intake reflects strong growth in the programme, with a mix of new and returning athletes benefiting from the support. The awards continue to provide a crucial lifeline, helping athletes stay in training and fulfil their potential.
Councillor Julia Neden-Watts, Chair of the Environment, Sustainability, Culture and Sports Committee helped present the awards alongside GLL representatives.
Richmond’s Partnership Manager for GLL, Oliver Stacey said:
“GLL’s social purpose has brought growing impact to public services and local communities over 33 years.
“Our GLL Sport Foundation remains central to our remit to widen and deepen opportunities available to talented young athletes and build a legacy through sport.
I want to wish our 49 supported Richmond athletes every success and we look forward to seeing them in competition here and abroad in years to come.”
The GSF Annual Report will be released shortly. For more information visit www.gllsportfoundation.org
The GLL Sport Foundation's Patron is Sally Gunnell, OBE and partners involved in the programme include SportsAid, SportsAid Wales, Mary Peters Trust, sponsors from GLL's supply chain and Richmond Council.
