Bannister Community Mile: Inspiring Youth Participation in Sport

young sport leaders basketball session

The Bannister Community Mile will again take to the picturesque Oxford High Street this May Bank Holiday, Monday 4th May, 2026. The Community Mile focuses on the inclusion of all in sport, regardless of age or ability, and this year greater attention has been directed to broadening access to sport for local young people.

Through a new partnership with the Sanghera Foundation, this year’s sponsor, the Community Mile event complements one of the core tenets of the foundation: aiming to break down barriers to participation and inspire the next generation of Oxford athletes.

young sport leaders podium institute

Empowering Oxford’s Youth

Since 2023, the University of Oxford’s SDG lab, supported by Vincent’s Club and athlete volunteers from Oxford University Cross Country Club, has led the award-winning Oxford Young Sports Leaders Programme. Each year the programme works with a group of more than 60 year 8 pupils from six local state secondary schools: Greyfriars Catholic School, The Oxford Academy, Oxford Spires Academy, The Swan School, Cheney School, and The Cherwell School.

The programme emphasises the importance of sport, especially in relation to academic attainment and healthy mental, physical, and social growth. For school pupils and university student volunteers alike, the programme is an incredibly rewarding and enriching experience.

The meaningful and sustainable enrichment and support that sport can provide for all communities, regardless of background or accessibility restrictions, is something that the Sanghera Foundation recognise. The Sanghera Foundation support several charities who aim to support and increase access opportunities for communities and individuals with fewer opportunities. The Bannister Community mile is grateful to the Sanghera Foundation for recognising the efforts of the Oxford Young Sports Leaders Programme and for their generous donation to offer 30 free places for each of the six secondary schools involved in the programme.

Dr Gordon Sanghera of the Sanghera Foundation said:

"The Sanghera Foundation is honoured to support the 2026 Bannister Community Mile. We believe in the power of sport to transform lives and strengthen communities. By sponsoring entry fees for local students, we hope to foster a lasting culture of physical activity and confidence among Oxford’s youth."

Professor Alexander Betts, Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Oxford Local and Global Engagement), said:

"The Bannister Miles is a shining example of how the University can work in partnership with the city to promote health, wellbeing, and community spirit. We are committed to ensuring our sports facilities are inclusive and accessible. Seeing the High Street filled with residents of all ages - from schoolchildren to families - perfectly captures our vision for local engagement."

Event Highlights

  • Community Spirit: Open to all ages and abilities, with free entry for children under six.
  • Historic Route: A rare opportunity to run through the closed streets of central Oxford.
  • Elite Inspiration: Following the community event, the Iffley Road track will host a series of high-level track races, featuring some of the UK’s top athletes on the World Athletics certified dark blue track.
  • Festival Atmosphere: Spectators are welcome at the track throughout the day, with local food vendors, fitness groups, and family activities on-site.

Entries are limited and expected to sell out. Participants are encouraged to register early at bannistermiles.org.uk.

30 March 2026