Registered charity BH Live is currently helping more than 50 local athletes across the BCP region to achieve their sporting potential.
FANS (Free Access for National Sports People) is a sports development initiative that aims to reduce the financial burden of training for nationally ranked sports people. Locally, the scheme is delivered in partnership with BCP Council to provide eligible sportspeople with free access to participating leisure and sports facilities at designated times, for personal training and development.
BH Live has been participating in the FANS scheme for fifteen years and has since helped hundreds of local athletes train for regional, national and international competitions.
One local athlete who benefits from the FANS scheme is fourteen-year-old Jayden Shearing, a Competitive up-and-coming Karter at Nibsport Racing. He trains at BH Live Active Stokewood in the Winton/Charminster area of Bournemouth.
We sat down with Jayden to find out more;
What got you interested in karting and how did you get started?
“I’ve been watching Formula 1 with my dad since I was really young. When I was eight, my uncles bought me a voucher for South Coast Karting. I’ve been Karting ever since!”
What is your fitness routine? How has training at BH Live Active Stokewood helped you train for races and competitions?
“I visit Stokewood every week, concentrating on upper body workouts and core strength training. The facilities are great, the team is so friendly, and the training has helped to keep me focused in the journey to competitions and races.”
It’s been six months since you joined BH Live Active with a FANS membership – would you recommend the scheme to others?
“I would highly recommend the scheme to up-and-coming young sports people. It’s a fantastic initiative and a great support for people who participate in sports competitively.”
What’s next for you? Are there any big competitions you are currently training for?
“This year I am competing in Karting competitions nationally with my team Nibsport. I will continue with my training at Stokewood and do more in the lead-up to competitions/races. I’m sure my improved fitness through the training I’m doing will help me when I’m racing.”
What advice would you offer for other young people like yourself who have set themselves some big goals?
“My advice would be to follow your dreams and have self-belief. If you believe in yourself anything is achievable. Also, don’t be too hard on yourself as there are always ups and downs along the way. Just try and enjoy your journey.”
On behalf of BH Live, Rob Cunningham, Director of Leisure and Business Development shared;
“Training for a competitive sport can be a significant financial burden that, all too often, stops people from progressing. By participating in the FANS scheme we are helping to reduce some of those financial barriers. Congratulations to Jayden for his progress so far, and best of luck with your Karting career.”
For more information at Stokewood, visit bhliveactive.org.uk/stokewood.
More information about FANS membership including eligibility criteria and how to apply, can be found at bcpcouncil.gov.uk
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BH Live, a registered charity and social enterprise, is a leading operator of sports and leisure centres, theatres, and event venues. Our vision is to create sustainable and inspiring opportunities, deliver great experiences for our communities, and improve health and well-being.
With a strong commitment to accessibility and community engagement, BH Live continues to enhance the quality of people’s lives, health and wellbeing in the communities it serves.
BH Live was established in 2010. Local authority partners include BCP Council, Portsmouth City Council and Croydon Council.
We are at the heart of the UK’s growing social economy. Together with our partners we are helping to change lives and make a positive impact in the community.
For more visit bhlive.org.uk.