Holly Cross

indu Teen Athlete Sponsorship Programme

Holly Cross

Key facts:

Age: 16
Sport: Athletics
Discipline: Cross Country and Biathle

How did you get into athletics?

"I fell in love with running when I was seven, inspired by my parents and brother. My first cross-country race was a bit of a shock - I was three years younger than everyone else, but somehow, I won. That race lit a fire in me, and ever since, I’ve loved the feeling of pushing myself, whether it’s running or swimming. Since then, I’ve had some amazing experiences. As an U11, I became British one-mile champion, even after taking a fall mid-race, I got back up, kept going, and still crossed the line first. I was presented with my medal and trophy outside Buckingham Palace, which was very surreal. Now, I’ve had the honour of representing England at the SIAB Cross Country Championships, School Hames and Great Britain in the World and European Biathle Championships, competing in places like Bali, Egypt and Madeira. It’s been an incredible journey, and I’m always chasing the next challenge."

What do you love about your sport?

"What I love most about my sport isn’t just the running or swimming, it’s everything that comes with it. The people I meet, the friendships I’ve made, and the shared moments of both struggle and success make it so much more than just training and racing. Some of my best friends are people I’ve met through sport, and there’s nothing better than lining up alongside them, knowing we’re about to push each other to be better. I love the buzz of racing, the nerves, the adrenaline, the battle to the finish. But I also love the feeling after a brutal session, when you’re exhausted but know you’ve put in the work. The best part is when all that hard work finally pays off, whether it’s hitting a PB, making a team, or just feeling stronger. That feeling keeps me coming back every day, ready to push myself all over again."

What is your proudest sporting achievement(s) to date?

"Winning the Northern Cross Country Champion in 1500m, representing England at the 5th World Biathle championships in Bali and coming 6th at European Biathle championships."

Any future goals and aspirations?

"One day, I’d love to compete at the Olympics. It’s the ultimate dream, to stand on that start line wearing a GB vest, knowing that years of hard work have led to that moment. I know it won’t be easy, but that’s what excites me. Every tough session, every race, and every setback is just part of the journey. Right now, my focus is on earning my first GB vest in running and pushing for a top-three finish at the World Biathle Championships. But in the back of my mind, I’m always thinking about the bigger picture, how far I can go if I keep pushing myself. The Olympics might feel like a long way off, but if there’s one thing sport has taught me, it’s that anything is possible with enough hard work."