Story
We’re raising £280,000 to build a brighter, fitter future for Haslemere and the surrounding villages — by upgrading our existing facilities to create a safe, inclusive environment for our new Junior Section at Haslemere Border Athletics Club, launching 9th May 2026.
*Mission Statement
"To give all children the opportunity to learn how to run — whether it’s for fun, fitness or competition."
We believe running is one of the simplest and most powerful ways to build confidence, resilience, and wellbeing. By introducing young people to structured, enjoyable running from an early age, we aim to inspire a lifelong love of movement and create a positive foundation for health and happiness.
* Vision Statement
To create a thriving junior running community in Haslemere where every child aged 12 and over can access quality coaching, develop lifelong skills, and enjoy running in a safe and inspiring environment.
Through running, we seek to help young people build confidence, structure, and discipline; develop mental strength and focus; and learn how consistent effort leads to personal growth. Our goal is to nurture a generation of young athletes who are fit, balanced, and motivated — and who carry these values into adulthood, creating a healthier future for themselves and their families.
* Purpose
- To re-establish a dedicated junior running programme in Haslemere for ages 12+, focusing on skill, fitness, and enjoyment.
- To offer a clear pathway for young runners to progress from beginner to competitive levels.
- To promote mental wellbeing, resilience, and self-confidence through structured coaching and teamwork.
- To foster community pride and belonging through inclusive access to running.
* Goals (2025–2027)
1. Launch & Growth
- Officially launch Haslemere Borders Young Athletes on 18th April 2026.
- Deliver weekly coached running sessions every Tuesday evening (6:00–6:50pm).
- Expand to two sessions per week as participation grows.
- Achieve England Athletics compliance for junior provision.
2. Participation
- Enroll 50+ junior members within the first year.
- Partner with local schools and youth organisations to reach a broad range of participants.
- Host annual Junior Running Festival to celebrate youth runners.
3. Facility Development
- Resurface and relay the track to ensure safe, modern training conditions.
- Upgrade lighting to extend running opportunities year-round.
- Improve accessibility, inclusivity, and safety across the site.
4. Sustainability & Legacy
- Secure long-term funding partnerships through grants, sponsorship, and local authority support.
- Train new coaches and volunteers, including parents, to sustain delivery.
- Create a lasting community legacy that promotes active, healthy living for future generations.
* Values
1. Inclusion – Running is for everyone.
2. Enjoyment – Keep it positive, motivating, and fun.
3. Respect – For self, others, and the sport.
4. Discipline – Learning focus, structure, and responsibility through running.
5. Community – Strengthening connections between young people, families, and Haslemere.
6. Wellbeing – Supporting both physical and mental health through movement.
* Funding Case Summary
Haslemere Borders Young Athletes represents a vital investment in the health and wellbeing of our community. By giving young people the opportunity to run in a structured, supportive environment, we build physical fitness, mental strength, and self-discipline — qualities that last a lifetime. Upgrading our track and lighting will allow us to safely deliver sessions all year round, support our coaches, and provide a high-quality environment for learning, inclusion, and lifelong participation. In doing so, we are helping to shape a fitter, healthier, and more confident generation of young adults — and, in time, their children too.
“All funds raised will be paid directly into Haslemere Border Athletics Club’s official bank account to support the Junior Section and facility improvements.”