Ferry operator Wightlink is continuing its long-standing backing of the Isle of Wight Talented Athlete Scheme, helping dozens of Island competitors access mainland training and competitions.
Wightlink has once again partnered with Isle of Wight Council to support the Isle of Wight Talented Athlete Scheme in 2026, providing discounted ferry travel to help Island athletes overcome the challenges of competing from an island location.
This year, 82 athletes across 23 different sports will benefit from the scheme, which is designed to support gifted non-professional competitors in reaching their full potential.
As a long-standing sponsor, Wightlink will provide discounted ferry travel to help athletes attend mainland training sessions, competitions and development programmes throughout the year.
The Talented Athlete Scheme runs from January to December 2026 and is coordinated by Isle of Wight Council with the support of several Island-based partners. These include 1Leisure, Love Running, Cowes Chiropractic Clinic, RMA Sports Injury Clinic, Sports Performance Centre and Amanda Buggy Soft Tissue Therapy & Nutrition.
Sam Woodman, Wightlink’s Partnerships Marketing Manager, has said:
“Wightlink has supported the Talented Athlete Scheme since it began in 2013, and we see first-hand the difference it makes. Travel can be a real barrier for Island athletes, so we’re proud to help remove that obstacle and support their ambition, dedication and hard work.”
Athletes accepted onto the scheme must meet strict eligibility criteria based on official National Governing Body rankings.
The programme supports both elite performers ranked among the top athletes nationally or selected for national squads, and junior performers aged 18 or under who are excelling at county, regional or national level.
All athletes must be Isle of Wight residents and compete in Sport England-recognised disciplines.
Alongside discounted ferry travel, successful applicants also receive free access to leisure centres and a range of retail, physiotherapy, chiropractic and nutritional discounts to support training, recovery and performance.
Alec Broome, from Isle of Wight Council, said:
“The Talented Athlete Scheme continues to go from strength to strength, thanks to the commitment of sponsors like Wightlink. This support allows Island athletes to compete on a level playing field and pursue their sporting goals while proudly representing the Isle of Wight.”
Athlete Mark Longford added:
“Being part of the Isle of Wight Talented Athlete Scheme genuinely means a lot to me. Training and racing in long-distance triathlon – along with the wider endurance events I take on – involves plenty of travel to the mainland, so having Wightlink’s support makes a real difference.”
“It takes the pressure off the logistics and allows me to focus on preparing properly, racing hard and representing the Island the best way I can.”
Wightlink says it is looking forward to following the progress of the 2026 athletes and celebrating their achievements throughout the year as they continue to showcase the Island’s sporting talent.
