AN Oxfordshire athletic club is launching a campaign to raise £100,000 for a new track and field area.

Bicester Athletic Club, which has more than 200 members aged eight and above, needs to fundraise to replace old and damaged facilities.

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The cost of new all-weather facilities is £100,000 which the club will need to find itself.

It has many fundraising activities planned and will be reporting on its progress via a 'jump-o-meter' displayed on its website.

The existing jump, discus and javelin facilities are 13-years-old and have been damaged by tree roots, weather and general wear and tear.

Budding Olympians will soon be unable to use long, high and triple jump run-ups because of the damage.

Under 11 athlete, Cyrus Ariana, has proved he is up for a challenge and is running a mile a day throughout August to help reach the club's funding target.

The youngster is being sponsored for his efforts with all monies raised going towards new throw and jump facilities.

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With a fair few miles already under his belt, Cyrus ran a mile at club training, supported by parents and athletes running with him.

Emma Gould, junior coach at the club, said: “We have so many talented youngsters in our club, but the lack of decent facilities is hampering their progress. Some of our best athletes have gone on to other clubs and we are losing our home-grown talent.

“Without our own all-weather track and field facilities we are also unable to hold competitions against the other local clubs. Without the facilities Bicester youngsters won’t have the opportunity of realising their sporting potential. Wouldn’t it be great if Bicester produced an Olympic athlete or two?”

The junior club caters for all children of any ability aged eight and above and has competitions all year round, both indoor and outdoor which includes cross county.

Anyone wishing to get involved or sponsor Cyrus should visit his fundraising page at justgiving.com/crowdfunding or you can donate to the club via the website at bicesterac.co.uk.

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The club welcomes new members of any ability who want to improve their fitness or parents who want to volunteer.

Bicester Athletic Club was founded in 1982 primarily as a road running club and gradually progressed to encompass cross country and track and field. It now concentrates on junior athletics (Under 9 through to Under 20) and also includes competing members up to Master category.

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