First Down Syndrome Team GB

Thanks to the stunning generosity of Iggy’s Fund, the first ever Down Syndrome Team from Great Britain was able to participate in the World Down Syndrome Athletics Championships in June.

24 countries were represented at the Championships, with athletes competing at the Vasil Levski National Stadium in Sofia, Bulgaria.

Team GB drew athletes from across the UK. Serena Bennett struck gold in the 1500m and 3000m walks. Conor Macauley-Conway finished a highly creditable 7th in the 1500m and Tessa Lightowler, Josh Lightowler and Joel Lambert represented Team GB in the Shot Putt, Discus and Javelin.

The athletes competed superbly and, though this was a small team, it is now anticipated that Down Syndrome athletics in the UK will go from strength to strength. The first British Down Syndrome Athletics Championships is being planned for Autumn 2027, with a view to identifying talented athletes and preparing them for future international events.

Team Captain, Conor Macauley-Conway, spoke glowingly of the event and the contribution of Iggy’s Fund ‘I absolutely loved it. I am inspired to do everything to win a medal in the future’

Conor’s parent, John Conway, added ‘Without any national funding for athletes with Down Syndrome, it falls upon parents to provide financial support for these events. This can get very expensive when one adds up the cost of flights, accommodation and entry fees, as well as the day-to-day costs of training in between championships. Iggy’s Fund has been incredible in providing athletes with financial support to make their participation possible’.

‘The benefits to the athletes are immense, in terms of their self-esteem, sense of achievement and pride in representing their country’.

‘By supporting this first Athletics Team GB, Iggy’s Fund has established a foundation for the growth of Down Syndrome Athletics across the UK and, in turn, on the international stage.