Young competitors from Swindon Harriers delivered notable results at the English Schools Track & Field Championships at Birmingham’s Alexander Stadium, securing three medals between them and underlining the club’s strength in hurdles and throws.
Podium finishes for Cox, Widdows and Pender
Under-18 400m hurdler Elliot Cox took silver with a time of 53.63 seconds, while Arthur Widdows claimed bronze in the under-19 400m hurdles. The club’s third medallist was 14-year-old Jacob Pender, who improved his personal best in the junior boys hammer to 54.48 metres, earning bronze.
"They have worked very hard throughout the winter and spring and are getting the rewards for their efforts and I am very pleased for both of them."
— Howard Moscrop, Swindon Harriers chairman and coach
Coach and club chairman Howard Moscrop praised the athletes’ preparation and discipline. Cox and Widdows are both coached by Moscrop, who has overseen their development through the club’s junior pathway.
What comes next
Following his silver medal, Elliot Cox is set to represent England at the SIAB International Championships in Belfast on 18 July, providing an early-season international opportunity for the 400m hurdler.
- Elliot Cox — Silver, U18 400m hurdles, 53.63s; heading to SIAB international in Belfast.
- Arthur Widdows — Bronze, U19 400m hurdles.
- Jacob Pender — Bronze, Junior boys hammer, PB 54.48m.
Other club members produced solid performances: Jesse Bryant finished sixth in the 1500m steeplechase in 4:26.60, and Kalina Karacheva made an international debut for Bulgaria at the Balkan U20 Games, finishing eighth in the 400m.
Local impact and club development
The results reinforce Swindon Harriers’ role in nurturing regional talent and providing competitive opportunities for school-age athletes. Success at the English Schools championships often acts as a springboard to county and national squads and can attract attention from university and national team selectors.
| Athlete | Event | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Elliot Cox | U18 400m hurdles | Silver — 53.63s |
| Arthur Widdows | U19 400m hurdles | Bronze |
| Jacob Pender | Junior hammer | Bronze — 54.48m (PB) |
For local families and aspiring athletes, the club provides coaching pathways and competition experience across age groups. Parents and young athletes interested in joining or learning more about training times and entry standards should contact Swindon Harriers directly for the most up-to-date information.
The medals are a timely reminder of the depth of athletic talent in and around Swindon and of the contribution grassroots clubs make to the national sporting landscape.
