Aspiring Athletes in Cumbria Encouraged to Apply for Funding Support

Aspiring athletes across Cumbria have been encouraged to apply for funding and support that could help them progress in their chosen sports. The GLL Sport Foundation has opened its programme for 2026, offering financial bursaries, access to sports facilities, training support and wellbeing services to eligible applicants.
The foundation’s support includes financial assistance, free access to gyms, pools and other facilities operated by GLL, as well as services such as physiotherapy, lifestyle mentoring and mental health support. A total of £2 million in bursaries and in‑kind support is available across the UK this year.
Last year, 102 athletes from Cumbria, ranging in age from eight to 69, secured awards through the programme, receiving around £70,000 in total. Among them was professional road cyclist Henrietta Colbourn from Eden, who used the support to access off‑bike conditioning and training that helped her performance.
The awards are open to individuals involved in a wide range of sports, including BMX racing, gymnastics, cricket, tennis, swimming, skiing, triathlon and para‑athletics. Successful applicants will also gain access to more than 250 sport and leisure facilities across the country.
Applications are open until February 20. Athletes and their families are being urged to apply soon to benefit from the support available and help cover costs associated with training, travel and development. For more information and to apply, visit the official GLL Sport Foundation website.