About UK Athletics

Since its inception in 1999, UK Athletics has developed to become the most successful and robust athletics governing body in the world.

Over the years it has matured to generate a clear vision for the sport – to drive up performance and raise standards in every event, every region and every age group.

This vision is fuelled by a dedicated team of full time staff and part time volunteers who all share the same passion and ambition for athletics, and are therefore instrumental in ensuring that athletics remains the most popular Olympic and Paralympic sport.

Following one of the biggest summers of sport this country has ever seen, all eyes will be on the next generation as the GB&NI team prepare for the Rio 2016 Olympics and the World Championships in London the following year.

Yet the purpose of UK Athletics does not end at preparing athletes for the world stage. Not only does it create mass appeal of a truly breathtaking spectator sport through televised events, UK athletics also plays a fundamental role in developing a ‘sport for all’ by encouraging participation no matter what your age, ability or background.

History

UK Athletics was formed in January 1999.

Following the demise of the British Athletic Federation in 1997, an in-depth analysis of the needs of the sport was undertaken and overseen by a steering group, the members of which were selected for their individual areas of professional competence and included The Rt. Hon. Sir Chris Chataway, David Moorcroft, Sally Gunnell and Roger Black. The group was also observed by members of the UK Sports Council.

Once plans for a new body were produced, clubs across the UK were informed of the proposals for a new, integrated governing body, which was later voted in on September 1998.

What resulted was a new, robust and efficient body driven from the perspective of the athlete – UK Athletics.

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