A STUDENT from Ryedale has celebrated winning a National Champion title.
Ben Foulger, 16, recently competed in the National Indoor Athletic Championships under-17’s men’s triple jump, managing to jump 14 meters and 26 centre meters to win the National Champion title.
The event was held on February 8 and 9 at the EIS in Sheffield, with Ben going up against eight other competitors who had met the required standards to enter.
He would go on to win the competition by two centre meters.
Ben only started competing in triple jumping in 2022 after performing well in athletics at school, going on to join City of York Athletics Club in Summer 2022.
This came after Ben had celebrated wins in sports days and local competitions, progressing to training three nights a week in the sport.
The Ryedale student now trains in York with Craig Pounder and Bramcote Athletics Club, in Scarborough, with coach Zach Harrop on a new athletics track.
In addition to his success in long jump, Ben has also competed in sprint competitions.
He recently won the Northern Indoor Championships in January 2025 in both triple jump and long jump, and last Summer won a bronze medal at the outdoor nationals for under-17’s triple jump.
Ben Foulger, in green, stands in top spot on the podium. (Image: Submitted) Ben holds the City of York club record for triple jump, and even holds the North Yorkshire record.
His incredible achievements has seen Ben win the Scarborough and district area Sportsman of the Year award for the last two years running.
Speaking on his superb accolade, Ben’s mother, Sarah, commented: “Ben has worked hard to reach this level and the feeling of winning the title still hasn't sunk in!
“Everyone is really proud of his achievements and also excited to follow his journey in athletics.”
Next up for Ben is the upcoming English Schools Championships in the Summer, as well as the Schools International Athletics Board and the outdoor National Championships.
