Lewisham’s next generation of athletes are being celebrated after earning bronze in a major youth sporting competition.
The team finished third in the London Youth Games Aquathlon, held on June 28, at the London Aquatics Centre.
The event saw 400 young athletes compete in a swim-run challenge representing 30 London boroughs.
Havering took first place, with Richmond in second.
Lewisham’s young competitors impressed with their “teamwork and resilience,” according to team manager Helena.
She said: "For Team Lewisham, this bronze medal was about far more than finishing third.
"It was a celebration of teamwork, resilience and the values that sport teaches.
"Our athletes supported one another, showed kindness to competitors from other boroughs and represented Lewisham with exceptional pride and respect throughout the day.
"Coming third was a proud moment for everyone involved and a fitting reward for all their hard work and dedication."
The London Youth Games are supported by a 49-year legacy of developing the potential of young athletes.
Alumni include Olympic triathlete Alex Yee, who started his journey competing for Lewisham and has since won two Olympic gold medals, a silver, and a bronze.
He also became the first Brit to win both the Olympics and the World Championships in the same year, achieving the feat in 2024.
The Games are about more than just medals.
They aim to provide inclusive and empowering sporting experiences for every young person in London.
The 2026 Aquathlon competition highlighted the social and emotional benefits that sport can offer.
According to the Youth Matters: State of the Nation Summary Report, 44 per cent of young people aged 11 to 18 regularly feel lonely.
Events like the London Youth Games bring young people together, helping to build friendships, confidence and a sense of community.
The Games are designed to be inclusive, giving young people from all backgrounds the chance to take part in sport.
This year’s aquathlon was made possible thanks to the support of borough team organisers, team managers, parents and volunteers.
Their involvement ensured a positive experience for everyone on the day.
The London Youth Games Foundation currently supports more than 10,000 young people across London each year.
It offers opportunities to compete in 37 different sports, all contributing to personal growth.
The London Youth Games began in 1977 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee and have grown into the largest youth multi-sport event in Europe.
Her Majesty and Prince Philip attended the Games in 2002 as part of the Queen’s Golden Jubilee Tour.
Each year, the Games deliver more than 37 sports through school and community programmes, engaging young people aged seven to 17 across the capital.
Other past participants include Sir Mo Farah, Dina Asher-Smith, Christine Ohuruogu, David Weir, Chloe Kelly and Raheem Sterling.
The Games aim to support not just physical development but also mental and emotional wellbeing, social integration and community cohesion.
Each of London’s 32 boroughs, plus the City of London, takes part in the programme, making it a truly city-wide celebration of youth sport.
Lewisham’s team is now looking ahead to future competitions, building on its recent success and continuing to promote the value of sport for all.
