Everybody Aspiring Athlete Journey
Sarah Bellew, who is part of Everybody’s Aspiring Athlete programme, claimed bronze in the Touch World Cup in Nottingham this July.
The event, which saw 4,000 athletes from 39 nations compete in over 1,000 matches, rivalled the Commonwealth Games in scale. Competing in the Women’s 40s division, marking the first time this age category was featured in a World Cup. Sarah’s team not only secured a podium finish but also made history. They became the first touch team outside of Australia, across all age groups and genders, to defeat New Zealand.
Additionally, they recorded the closest ever score line by an England team against the reigning world champions, Australia, with a narrow 6-4 loss. Reflecting on the experience, Sarah shared:
“I am incredibly proud to be part of this team and what we accomplished. We were within touching distance of silver, and while missing out was tough, our achievements surpass the final standings. We demonstrated that women do not have a ‘best before date’ and that women in midlife can be athletic, competitive, and fiercely determined. We also proved that the southern hemisphere powerhouses in this sport are beatable.”
Sarah continued:
“I’m immensely grateful for the support from Everybody. Training at my local gym in Nantwich, with its fantastic facilities, has been invaluable. Alongside my England Touch strength and conditioning programme, I’ve been able to enhance my fitness through some brilliant classes, Group Cycling and TRAIN are among my favourites.”
In her professional life, Sarah is Head of Communications and Engagement at the charity, ‘Women in Sport’. Sarah praises Everybody for its work to break down barriers to activity for women, saying,
“Providing a range of classes, coupled with friendly and knowledgeable instructors in a welcoming environment, is crucial to keeping women active. The ‘caught short’ lockers are also a fantastic initiative. Our research at Women in Sport shows that 7 out of 10 teenage girls avoid physical activity during their periods, and all women can be caught off guard from time to time. Having products available not only meets an immediate need but also sends a powerful message that women are supported and that they belong.”
Find out more about how Everybody Health & Leisure are supporting keeping woman in sport
Visit here to see more information about Everybody’s Aspiring Athlete Programme
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