The summer of 2018 brought blazing sunshine and fluctuating weather, and for many a chance to relax from reality, though for young athletes across the country it was also the height of their competitive season. So for the competitors in Hillingdon, November 17th was a chance to celebrate these 8-20 year-olds who work tirelessly year after year.
Although they represent the West London borough, many are oblivious to the few hundred young people who spend much of their time representing their local area in competitions. Competing in athletics, they contend through difficult track meets whether it be by throwing, jumping or racing, all in a bid to win leagues and beat personal bests. As Hillingdon Athletics Club grows stronger as the years progress it must be asked, why don’t we know of it?
Annually, the club comes together at their welcoming, albeit small, clubhouse based in Ruislip. This is a chance to commend their members with a range of medals and rewards whilst celebrating the season’s successes. This year, held on the aforementioned date of November 17th, Hillingdon AC was proud to announce their achievements, such as a 200-point lead victory within the Upper Youth Development League, against clubs such as Ealing AC, Thames Valley Harriers and Team Oxfordshire. A coach at the club, Courtney Clarke said, “I cannot begin to tell you how proud I am of all the athletes who gave it their all this season”. To join in on the celebrations, a previous Team GB 400m sprinter, Tim Benjamin came to congratulate athletes and provide some motivation.
Hillingdon Athletics Club provides a space for young people to train and develop, with experienced coaches to support upcoming athletes. It holds members that competed in the prestigious ESAA Track and Field Championships earlier this year, as well as many who rank highly in the UK, hence why you could question their lack of recognition in the area.
Do we ignore the smaller organisations within our community, or is it the fault of said groups that they don’t advertise? Either way, acknowledgment for those who swap free time for representing the area must be way overdue some recognition.
