Startrack

Startrack offers children a fun-filled week of athletics, where they can explore various events and improve their athletic skills. Paddock Wood Athletic Club has proudly hosted Startrack weeks for over 30 years, making it the longest-running scheme of its kind in the country.

Startrack is designed for children aged 11 to 16, but we welcome younger participants from age 6 upwards (children must be 6 years old on the first day). We provide tailored events and use specialised, softer equipment for our younger athletes, ensuring activities are suitable for their age, ability, and competence. Our coaching is delivered by England Athletics-trained coaches, with assistance from specially selected teenage club members, who undergo training via England Athletics.

During the week, children have the opportunity to develop their skills in:

• Sprinting (up to 400m, including hurdles and relays)
• Middle distance (800m to 1500m)
• Throwing (javelin, discus, shot put, and hammer)
• Jumping (long jump, triple jump, and high jump)
• Race walking

Each day includes coaching in at least three events, culminating in a final-week competition where children can participate in a run/race walk, jump, and throw of their choice. Participants receive a Startrack T-shirt at the beginning of the week and a goodie bag at the end. Trophies and medals are awarded to competition winners.

Paddock Wood Startrack is proud to have introduced over 4000 children from diverse backgrounds and nationalities to athletics. Over the years, we have helped develop some outstanding athletes, including a GB Junior International javelin thrower, English Schools Athletics Championships competitors, and numerous Kent County and Kent Schools Athletics champions.

Startrack provides an excellent introduction to athletics, complementing school sports programs. With schools often facing limited time for athletics due to packed timetables, Startrack offers specialised coaching outside of school hours, helping athletes refine their skills.

Startrack is hugely popular, and everyone gets the chance to try everything, including the giant obstacle relay and water fight on the final Friday – so come prepared to get wet!

Elizabeth Bignell
Startrack Organiser