The Community Champion Award is for an individual or small group of people who are making a significant and lasting impact within their community through sport or physical activity. This could be through inspiring others to get involved, or breaking down barriers to participation, and creating opportunities for people to be active and to connect with others.

Take a look at our 2026 finalists for this award below.

Finalists

Gail Castledine

Gail has created a welcoming running community in Louth that has helped people discover the confidence, enjoyment and connection that physical activity can bring. Seeing that traditional club runs could feel daunting for beginners, Gail introduced a Saturday morning ‘Jeffing’ group, combining one minute of running with 30 seconds of walking. The approach removes barriers by allowing everyone to take part at their own pace, with different routes and distances available each week.

What started with a handful of friends has grown into a regular group of up to 30 people, bringing complete beginners and experienced runners together. Gail’s encouragement and inclusive approach mean nobody is left behind, and many participants have progressed from their first runs to 10Ks, half-marathons and even ultra-marathons. But the connection goes beyond running. The group meets for coffee at the leisure centre afterwards, creating a valuable social opportunity where friendships and a sense of belonging can flourish. Gail’s commitment has created a community where everyone feels welcome, supported and inspired to achieve more.

Justyna Łukaszuk

Justyna has transformed opportunities for children, families and communities in Spalding, building an inclusive organisation from the ground up despite having limited English, no funding and no roadmap to follow. What began by supporting the Polish community quickly expanded to include Ukrainian families and people of all nationalities and backgrounds, using physical activity to improve wellbeing, reduce isolation and bring communities together.

Justyna has secured significant funding from organisations including the National Lottery Community Fund, Sport England, Cycling UK and Spacehive, creating free and accessible opportunities including yoga, Zumba, cycling, walking groups, youth activities and wellbeing programmes. Removing barriers is at the heart of her work, ensuring financial circumstances, disability or additional needs never prevent people from taking part. Her impact extends beyond activities, supporting families facing hardship and developing local leaders and volunteers. By training instructors and mentoring emerging community leaders, Justyna is creating opportunities for others to make a difference too, helping build stronger, more connected and inclusive communities across South Holland and Lincolnshire.

Mile that Matter

Miles That Matter Run Club was founded in March 2026 following the tragic loss of a close friend, with a desire to create something positive from grief and provide a place where people could come together, be active and feel supported. What began as a few friends running together has quickly grown into a welcoming community, with raising awareness of mental health, particularly men’s mental health, at its heart. The club is open to everyone, regardless of age, ability or experience.

Keeping participation free and accessible is central to Miles That Matter. Weekly Wednesday track sessions are funded by the founders, while Sunday runs bring people together through partnerships with local businesses across Lincoln. Members support each other to build fitness and confidence, take part in local races and, importantly, develop genuine friendships. The club recognises that simply turning up can be a significant achievement, creating a supportive environment where people can leave the house, connect with others and feel part of something bigger. In just a few months, Miles That Matter has shown how running can improve physical health while creating connection, belonging and support.

The winners for all award categories will be announced at our Award Ceremony on 12 November. View all our 2026 award finalists here.