Soldiers from across the region went head-to-head as the Army Sport North Inter-Unit Athletics Championships 2026 returned to Catterick.
The competition delivered a full day of high-tempo competition, fierce rivalry and a shot at progression to the next level.
Held at Leyburn Athletics Stadium, the championships saw teams push themselves across a demanding programme of track and field events, where every performance counted towards overall unit success.
The event organiser, Staff Sergeant Steven Hasse said: “The Army Sport North Inter Unit Athletics is one of the biggest events on the Army Sport North calendar.
“The championships form part of the Army Sport North Trophy which includes football, cross country, swimming and hybrid fitness amongst other sports.
“Points are given to units based on both participation and finishing position. The trophy culminates with an award ceremony and is used to encourage sports participation to infuse teamwork, morale and physical fitness as well as a tool for recruitment and retention.”
All Events, All Effort
From explosive 100 metre sprints to endurance tests like the 5000 metres, and technical field events including high jump, long jump and javelin, units were required to compete across the full spectrum of disciplines placing a premium on depth, versatility and teamwork.
Failure to field athletes in any event proved costly, with zero points awarded, raising the stakes and ensuring units brought their strongest squads.
Relay races offered a crucial opportunity to gain an edge, with double points on offer, while track events were split into heats, where final standings were decided on time rather than head-to-head finishes, adding another layer of intensity to the competition.
Second Lieutenant Milo Blaky from the Light Dragoons said: “Today has been a great opportunity to test myself and my abilities.
“I’m doing the 1500-meter race today, it’s a really good opportunity to compete, meet new people within the Army and compete in the North.”
One shot at qualification
Beyond the medals and bragging rights, the championships played a vital role in the wider United Kingdom North Sports Trophy Competition 2026, bringing together units from across the region to compete for top honours.
Crucially, the event doubled as a qualifier for the Inter Unit Team Finals, with only the top-performing teams progressing. The first five major units, three minor units, and two female teams secured their place at the finals, making every point, every second and every throw count.
Teamwork, drive and determination
With each athlete limited to a maximum of three events, alongside relay participation, careful planning and tactical decision-making played a crucial role in shaping the outcome. Ultimately, the championships were about more than just winning. They tested resilience, built cohesion, and showcased the physical and mental standards expected across Army Sport North.
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