A free athletics programme in Harrow is offering inclusive sports sessions for young people with disabilities.
Sarries Track Club, held at Bannister Outdoor Sports Centre in Harrow Weald and StoneX Stadium in Hendon, provides weekly coaching in athletics activities including running, jumping, and throwing. The club is open to participants aged 12 to 24 of all abilities.
Since it started in 2016, the club has grown from a single marathon trainee to a group of up to 40 participants each week. Sessions include activities such as sprints, relays, shot put, and discus, tailored to the needs of each individual.
Coach Gary Collins said: “At first, I used to wonder what we could achieve together. But absolutely nothing surprises me anymore. The teamwork and support from the athletes, parents, and buddies makes Sarries a very special club with a bigger, brighter future.”
The club supports participants with a range of needs, including high-functioning autism and non-verbal communication challenges. One parent commented: “Our son Chris struggles with self-perception and making friends, but the club has been transformative. He’s grown so much in confidence and enjoys the camaraderie with fellow athletes and the support team.”
Parents also value the respite the sessions provide. One parent said: “As a parent, I have really appreciated the support and friendship of other parents. It is a place where you can share stories, experiences and discoveries with those who are in a similar situation – this is invaluable.”
The club, supported by Everyone Active, offers free access to Bannister Outdoor Sports Centre, which features an eight-lane, 400m floodlit running track. John Sewell, Everyone Active’s Contract Manager in Harrow, said: “We are proud to support the incredible work of the Sarries Track Club. Their dedication to empowering local athletes with disabilities is truly inspiring, and we’re honoured to provide them with a home base where they can train for free and focus on achieving their goals. It’s a privilege to be part of a journey that breaks down barriers, builds confidence, and creates life-changing opportunities for these athletes.”
Looking to the future, Coach Gary said: “The aim is to grow and reach out to more athletes. Fitness, exercise, movement and social skills are the foundation of a successful life and Sarries provides this in a safe and welcoming environment. Special Olympics is the ultimate goal, seeing the athletes compete and everyone being there – coaches, parents, buddies, family – is what dreams are made of.”
Sarries Track Club is part of The Saracens Foundation, the charitable arm of Saracens Rugby Club, which serves communities across Hertfordshire and North London. It aims to inspire positive change through sport and social engagement.
Anyone interested in joining the sessions can contact Clare Floyd at clarefloyd@saracens.net.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
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