indu Teen Athlete Sponsorship Programme

Holly Cross

Key facts:

Age: 17
Sport: Athletics
Discipline: Cross Country and Biathle
Country: UK
Instagram: @holly_c_runner

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? 

"The thing I love most about athletics is my current training group and racing. Succeeding in a race validates the hard work that I put into training which also motivates me to try even harder. I train with some amazing people, and I really enjoy the social aspect of the sport. A healthy training environment has been key to my enjoyment within Athletics and training with some of my best friends enables me to love my sport even more."

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

"There's a few I could mention - including being National 5k Champion, plus representing England in track, road and cross country. I got 1st place at the British Milers Club in 1500m with 4.24, ranking me 4th U17 in the UK! I came 3rd at the 2026 National Indoor championships, 1st at the 2025 European Catholic Schools Games 1500m, also 2nd in the 800m."

Any future goals and aspirations? 

"I want to work towards my first GB kit in Athletics and Cross Country, I would also like to achieve my first medal at English Schools this year. Another goal of mine is to finish highly in the Mini Marathon. I want to break 17 minutes in the 5k. Additionally, I would love to represent England again in the upcoming months."