Wakefield to welcome INAS European Cross Country Championships
Thornes Park in Wakefield is to be the setting for the 7th Inas European Cross Country Championships, taking place in just under a month’s time.
The UK Sports Association for People with Learning Disability (UKSA) and Mencap Sport are working together to ensure a world-class event takes place in West Yorkshire from 19th-23rd February.
UKSA promotes, facilitates and supports talented athletes with learning disabilities in the UK to train, compete and excel in national and international competitive sport, as well as managing the eligibility and classification process for UK athletes with learning disabilities.
Chief Executive at the UK Sports Association, Tracey McCillen said:
“The 7th Inas European Cross Country Championships will bring together elite international athletes, their families, coaches and supporters to the City of Wakefield to compete for a coveted place amongst Europe’s best. On behalf of UKSA, I wish to warmly congratulate Mencap Sport for driving the bid forward. We look forward to working with Mencap Sport and Wakefield Council who through a strong collaboration will no doubt deliver an outstanding event.”
Mencap Sport works to promote opportunities for people with a learning disability at all levels.
Chief Executive at Mencap Sport, Jan Tregelles said:
“We are delighted to host this top sporting event here in the UK. We believe that people with a learning disability should have the same opportunities to participate in elite sport, enjoy it, and excel in it as all other athletes. This competition will bring together the most outstanding runners with a learning disability from across Europe and we hope it brings the sport the attention it deserves.”
Thornes Park is also home to Thornes Park Stadium, a fully Inclusive Fitness Initiative site and home to Wakefield Gymnastics Club, Wakefield Junior Triathlon, Wakefield Harriers, Grange Park Bowls Club and Thornes Park Jogging Club.
The Great Britain Team to compete in Wakefield will be selected and managed by the UK Sports Association. Further details on the British Team will be announced soon.
Image supplied by Inas.
