Hampstead Heath’s iconic Parliament Hill Fields was buzzing with excitement on Saturday, 16 November, as over 1,900 young athletes from all 32 London boroughs and the City of London competed in the London Youth Games (LYG) flagship Cross Country event. The competition marked the opening of the 2024/25 season and set the tone for a thrilling year ahead.

The event showcased the unifying power of sport, with young Londoners competing not just for medals but also for the pride of representing their boroughs. With an almost equal split of 49% girls and 51% boys, the event highlighted London Youth Games’ commitment to gender balance. Furthermore, the diversity of participants reflected London’s vibrant communities, with 26%* identifying as Asian, Black, Mixed Race, or other ethnicities. Inclusivity is at the heart of the Games, 1.2% of the athletes identified as having a disability, and 32% came from areas ranked in Deciles 1–5 on the Index of Multiple Deprivation, reinforcing the Games’ commitment to providing opportunities for all.

The Cross Country race continues to be a vital platform for improving physical and mental wellbeing, fostering personal development, and strengthening community ties.

Mayor of Camden, Samata Khatoon said: “I was delighted to watch the runners, and I feel like everyone who has made this possible has to be super proud of this event because it’s a fantastic event. Supporting this shows how important it is for young people to be fit, physically and mentally. I’m so proud of all the winners, and I want to see more of these events in Camden. It’s been a fantastic day.”

The Cross Country event is known for its rich legacy, with many young participants going on to achieve greatness. Alumni include four-time Olympic champion Mo Farah (Hounslow), Olympic triathlete Alex Yee (Lewisham), and Paris 2024 double medallist Sam Reardon.

Geoff Thompson MBE, Chair of London Youth Games, highlighted the day’s significance: “Today we’re at the first curtain-raiser of the London Youth Games 2024/25 season – a great display of 1,900 runners benefiting from sport, physical activity and wellbeing. This is where the season starts, and next July at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, we’ll host the Finals Festival, marking a year-round journey of engaging, inspiring, and empowering young Londoners.”

The event plays a crucial role in the lives of young Londoners, many of whom are competing in athletics for the first time. Baron from Newham said: “I’m really excited today because it’s my first time ever competing in this event. I feel like running helps me get things off my mind and keeps me calm. I feel quite proud of myself.”

Karrell from Haringey added how the London Youth Games makes him feel proud: “Today is very exciting to run for myself and for my borough. Running relieves a lot of stress and it’s a big competition with everyone enjoying themselves. Especially for me, running helps me socialise and meet new friends.”

Andy Dalby-Welsh, Chief Executive of London Youth Games, added: “We are thrilled to bring so many young Londoners together at Parliament Hill Fields, one of London’s most prestigious venues. This event creates unforgettable memories for participants, officials, volunteers, and supporters alike. Our thanks go to the City of London Corporation for hosting us and the South of England Athletics Association for their support and a thank you to the Borough Team Organisers for their hard work ensuring so many young Londoners could benefit.”

The London Youth Games continues its mission to inspire the next generation, providing life-changing opportunities through sport for young people of all abilities.