Athletes wanting to compete at the England Age Group Championships should read the below document in it's entirety:

England Age Group Championships 2026 - Qualification document

For 2026, British Weight Lifting is introducing a refreshed entry process to ensure a fairer and more performance-driven system.

Round 1 – Performance-Based Invitations

Athletes who meet or exceed 90% of the British Age Group Total Standard or Record within the qualification period (9 January 2025 – 9 January 2026) will receive a direct invitation to compete.

Round 2 – Open Entry Phase

Remaining quota places will then open on a first come, first served basis via the Sport80 portal. All entrants must meet the minimum qualification standards to be eligible.

The structure of the U10 and U12 Championships remains unchanged. These age groups require participation in at least one official competition during the qualification period, but no minimum total is needed.

• All athletes must be current BWL members and domiciled in England.
• Age groups are based on the athlete’s year of birth.
• Each athlete may compete in only one age group.
• Photo ID must be shown at registration and weigh-in.

Please note,  two competition platforms will be in use throughout the event. A final schedule will be released on 10 Feb 2026.

Expressions of interest are now open for volunteers to support the England Age Groups Championships 2026, taking place at Oldbury Academy, Birmingham, from 20–22 February 2026. Volunteers will play a key role in delivering a high-quality championship experience for young athletes from across the country.

We are looking for Technical Officials, Loaders, and general event volunteers!

Volunteer contributions include:

• £30 per day payment for covering a minimum of three sessions a day
• £5 contribution towards lunch

Get the best seat in the house, meet new and like-minded people, and stay close to the action by volunteering with British Weight Lifting. If you are interested in supporting the event, please complete the form below by 09/01/2026.

Apply now!