Eighteen-year-old James Teagle, from Birstall, is competing in triathlon at an international level, taking part in European Junior Cup races across Europe.

He has to fund all of his travel, equipment costs and race fees himself, so decided to apply for a small grant from the Inspire Awards to help meet these costs.

James said:

"I'm really glad I applied for an Inspire Award. They gave me a grant of £235 and I used the money to help me compete in the Geneva European Junior Cup where, despite my goggles snapping in the swim, I had my best European cup result yet, finishing 11th. I am hoping to build on this next year, in what will be my final year as a junior.

"I'm absolutely passionate about triathlon and I'd like to thank the Trust as this money has helped me to compete abroad, gain valuable experience of international racing and continue to build my career as an athlete."

James's recent fantastic achievements in triathlon include a third place at Blenheim Triathlon, second in the London Aquathlon and leading the rankings in the British Junior Superseries. He was in action in Canada last weekend (30/31 Aug) at the junior elite world championships, coming 22nd in an impressive international debut.

"I'll aim for top ten next year!"

Launched in June, the Inspire Awards offer small grants and/or specialist support to city and county young people aged 13-19, to help them develop their talents.

The awards are a new venture from the Joe Humphries Memorial Trust (JHMT), a local charity set up in memory of Joe Humphries, who died, aged 14, while out jogging near his home in October 2012.
Joe was a victim of sudden arrhythmic death syndrome (SADS) – a group of lethal heart diseases which can cause sudden cardiac death in young people.

Through the Inspire Awards, JHMT aims to help local young people fulfil their potential in a way that Joe was tragically never able to.

Simon Taylor is a partner at local solicitors Gateley, who have helped raise funds for the Inspire Awards. Simon is on the judging panel, and said:

"We were all tremendously impressed by James's story. There are so many young people out there who are achieving amazing things and taking part in a whole range of hugely positive activities, so we want to make sure these young people get their voices heard and get the help they so richly deserve. The awards have the right name because it truly is inspiring to see what these young people can achieve when they are offered the right support."

Grants of up to £500 are available for young people who live in Leicester or Leicestershire and are either training for a competition in a significant sporting activity that is recognised by the Trust, or pursuing a project to benefit their local community.

Applications will also be considered from young artists or musicians looking to develop their talents.
The Trust will also encourage the sharing of knowledge and practical experience, helping young entrepreneurs to develop their ideas. In these cases, rather than a financial reward, young people will benefit from mentoring, contacts and specialist advice.

Find out more about the Inspire Awards