Backing the best young talent in the land
Sophie Colebourn got bullied when she was younger. Now she's England's number two boxer in the 60kg category. Without you, she may have dropped out of boxing altogether.
And Sophie's not alone – every year some of our best young athletes drop out because of the cost of sport. Thanks to you, that's set to change.
Sport England has launched 'Backing The Best' – a programme to give more than 60 young people, like Sophie, the opportunity to fulfil their potential while minimising the cost of competing at the highest level. It has committed £5.5million of National Lottery funding over the next four years.
The 'bursaries' are for up to £5,000 per year and help cover costs such as travel, accommodation, nutrition and medical bills.
This money will help to level the playing field and give more talented youngsters the best sporting chance of reaching their potential.
And it's not just our best sporting talent you've been supporting. Around 400 projects a week get National Lottery funding to help Britons with talent realise their dreams whether it's boxing, football, dancing, singing or circus skills, apprenticeships, gardening or restoration techniques – you make it all possible. Thank you!
The National Lottery has been changing the lives of winners and supporting good causes across the UK since 1994. In that time, there have been more than 7,400 new millionaires created and by playing The National Lottery you raise over £4 million for Good Causes every dayΔ.
Discover more