Lions International support National Championships

Lions Clubs International, a service organisation, brought a team of 30 from across the UK to support the national event in Coventry. Lions give their time to support communities, as well as raining vital funds across the world.

Penny Tregillus was in Coventry to support the athletes, support staff and volunteers at the competition.

"As a Lion I come to this event because it’s part of a service activity and we’re helping all these amazing children achieve what they can in active sport," she said.

"I’ve been coming to this event for about 12 years. Alongside financial support, the Lions help with the setting up of the event, moving around the equipment, , we help the judges, we even run some of the games like power chair slalom, grip ball throw and precision bean bag. We are also here to provide general support for whatever is needed."

The National Junior Para Athletics Championships are a major event in the Activity Alliance calendar. The competition has a proud history of giving disabled athletes the opportunity to compete at a major event, playing a pivotal part in helping them to reach their potential. The passion of all dedicated volunteers helps to make the competition a success.

Geoff and Pam, part of Barton Lions, attended for the second year running.

"We came last year for the first time," said Geoff . "We’ll definitely be back next year," Pam was quick to add.

She went on to explain: “This is a wonderful and very uplifting event. I’m really pleased to be a part of it. The children are so wonderful, very supportive with each other. They’re all very talented and it’s wonderful to watch.”

Geoff added: "Lions like to do things for the community, and this event is the ideal example. It’s great to be able to join up with other Lions from across the UK and give our combined support to such a fantastic event. It’s very humbling."