The Brownlee Foundation has celebrated its 100th event, marking a major milestone for the charity, which was founded by Olympic medal-winning triathletes Alistair and Jonny Brownlee to give children the chance to experience sport for free.
The milestone event took place at Mold, North Wales, on Tuesday 16 June 2026, with Alistair Brownlee in attendance as primary school pupils took part in a free, fun and inclusive triathlon experience.
Since the Foundation was established by the Horsforth brothers in 2014, more than 92,000 children have now taken part in a Brownlee Foundation event.
The achievement comes at a time when school sport provision is under renewed national focus. Recent government changes will see England’s PE and Sport Premium replaced by a new PE and School Sport Partnerships Network from spring 2027, with schools and sector leaders calling for continued clarity and support around children’s access to physical activity.
The Brownlee Foundation’s events are free for primary schools and aimed at Key Stage 2 pupils, with no previous triathlon experience required. Bikes, helmets and other equipment are provided, helping to remove barriers to participation and ensuring children of all abilities and backgrounds can take part.
Every child receives a t-shirt before the event, along with a medal, goody bag and healthy snacks when they cross the finish line.
Alistair Brownlee said: “When Jonny and I started the Brownlee Foundation, the aim was simple. We wanted to give more children the chance to experience sport in a positive, accessible and enjoyable way.
“This has never been about creating elite athletes. It’s about helping children try something new, build confidence and discover what they are capable of. To reach 100 events and know that more than 92,000 children have now taken part is something we are incredibly proud of.
“Sport has given us so much throughout our lives, and we know the impact it can have on confidence, resilience, friendships and wellbeing. Seeing children cross the finish line with a smile on their face is exactly why the Foundation exists.”
Jonny Brownlee added: “The most powerful thing about the Foundation is that it gives children an experience they might not otherwise have. For some, it is their first time trying a triathlon. For others, it might be the first time they have enjoyed being active.
“That matters. Not every child sees themselves as sporty, but every child gets the chance to be active, have fun and feel proud of what they have achieved.
“Reaching 100 events is a brilliant milestone, but it also makes us even more determined to keep going. We want to inspire the next generation to enjoy being active and to make sure more children can access those opportunities, whatever their background.”
The Foundation has grown significantly since its first event in 2014, working with schools, volunteers, local sports clubs, councils and partners to deliver free triathlon experiences for thousands of children each year.
The events are designed to be inclusive and non-competitive, giving children a positive introduction to swimming, cycling and running while encouraging them to enjoy sport and lead active lifestyles.
The 100th event milestone is part of a busy year for the Foundation, with more than 17,500 children taking part across 17 events through their schools.
To find out more about the Brownlee Foundation, visit www.thebrownleefoundation.org.