Athlete Travel Award Scheme – 2024
Applications have now closed
The Islands Athlete Travel Award Scheme allows Athletes from the Outer Hebrides the opportunity to benefit from the program designed to support travel costs in the islands.
The aim of this scheme is to help elite pathway athletes of the Highlands & Islands to gain better access to competitive and developmental opportunities available on the mainland.
On review of the 2021/22 application process, it was agreed that having two rounds of applications for each 12 month period would best serve the athletes of the Outer Hebrides. Athletes will be able to apply for both the 1st and 2nd six month period applications, or just one, depending on their competition calendar.
Athletes are now invited to apply for the 1st round of applications for the period 1st April – 1st October 2024. Athletes will be able to apply for both the 1st and 2nd six month period applications, or just one, depending on their competition calendar.
Candidates in the Outer Hebrides can apply for sums up to £750 per application and could be awarded up to £1500 if successful on both occasions. The amount they receive if successful will be based on a number of criteria in the application process including their forecasted Competition and Training schedule, understanding of the Sports Performance Pathway and National Rankings.
Awards will be allocated through an application process, with athletes required to evidence how the grant will improve their performance, provide them with increased access to quality training opportunities and improve their sports or club environment.
Sportscotland has allocated each of the three local authorities £10k, with the Councils then required to top this up with £2k of their own funding plus the equivalent of £3k of management and administrative time.
Paul Steele, Council Leader said:
“The Athlete Travel Award Scheme has been a fantastic addition to the support the Comhairle is able to provide our elite athletes. The feedback from previous applicants has been very encouraging and I would anticipate a high level of applicants for this year’s grants, particularly as athletes return to competitive sport.” “Sportscotland has become a valued partner over the years in our efforts to encourage our young people to get involved in sport and activities, and we are delighted that they have agreed to continue their support of this scheme.”
The scheme opens for applications from Monday 19th February 2024 and will close on Friday 8th March 2024.
A Panel review of the applications will follow at which time athletes will be identified for support by each local authority.
To find out more about the scheme contact the Community Sports Hub Officer for the Western Isles:
Euan Macleod
E-mail: [email protected]
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