Harriers embracing the challenge of nurturing homegrown talent

Over the years, a number of international and, in some cases, Olympic athletes have come through the Wakefield District Harriers and Athletic Club system.

- by Phil Harrison

IMPRESSIVE FACILITY: The refurbished Thornes Park Stadium, home to Wakefield District Harriers and Athletic Club.

(PICTURE: PHIL HARRISON)

The most recent Olympian was Amy-Eloise Markove, who competed in the 5,000m in Tokyo in 2021.

Prior to that there was high jumper Martyn Bernard, who competed at Beijing in 2008, where sprinter Emily Freeman was also in action.

The club who they competed for at meetings over the years is always on the lookout for unearthing future potential in track and field.

As with most amateur sports clubs and associations, however, that aim of helping youngsters fulfil their athletic dreams - whether it be in track and field, road running or cross-country - is only made possible thanks to the volunteers that give up their own time so freely in order for such organisations to operate.

At the moment, Wakefield has around 200 active members, ranging from Under-11s through to seniors.

Last weekend saw the club stage its last meeting of the outdoor season, with focus now switching to the indoor schedule as well as cross country and road running.

Chris Bedford, himself a former sprinter, is the club's president, while also coaching sprinters at 100m, 200m and 400m.