Former sprint star Adam Gemili has expressed hope that the planned renovation of the Crystal Palace sports centre could serve as a catalyst for the return of more athletics events in the United Kingdom.
Gemili’s Fond Memories of Crystal Palace
Gemili, now 32, made his Diamond League debut on the south London track as a junior before embarking on an impressive senior career that culminated in world and European gold medals. The stadium, which has fallen into disrepair in recent years, has received backing from London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan for rejuvenation plans aimed at bringing the historic site back into use.
With London’s Olympic Stadium currently the only Diamond League host in the UK, Gemili believes the refurbishment could help revive British athletics events. “It is a real shame Crystal Palace doesn’t have a Diamond League anymore,” he said. “It will be nice to give that stadium a bit of love because it’s super quick and we’ve seen some brilliant times on it.”
He recalled his first Diamond League appearance at Crystal Palace as a junior. “We ran the relay and came dead last in lane one but we were just happy to be there. I had never seen a crowd of that many people. Asafa Powell won the 100m, it’s one of my best memories.”
Decline in UK Athletics Meets
Gemili highlighted the decline in the number of athletics meets in the UK. “When I first came on, there was Crystal Palace, Gateshead, Birmingham, London. Now we’re lucky if we get a London Diamond League. There needs to be a lot more athletics meets. The hunger is there, people want to see it. They just have to facilitate it.”
Importance of Accessible Facilities
Gemili stressed the importance of keeping sites like Crystal Palace accessible to all, noting that hire fees and other costs often pose barriers. “There is much talent. We have got all these brilliant facilities that need a bit of love. People need access to those facilities, they need to be made available for people to use. Sport is such a big part of culture in this country. We have such a talented youth system and that needs to be looked after and grown.”
He was speaking from Larkhall Park in Stockwell, where he witnessed the positive impact of opening up access. The 32-year-old observed a football session run by Sports Fun 4 All, a south London charity nominated for a London Sport Award. The charity organises 21 sessions per week, 16 of which are free. Gemili praised the work of CEO and founder Kieran Connolly.
“It was more than I expected,” Gemili added. “Seeing the way it was run, how diligent they are, everyone was very respectful. They’ve got a really good thing here and I really hope they can keep their funding and grow and get bigger. What they do for the community is brilliant.”
He noted that the sessions are not about footballing ability but about bringing people together. “It’s about bringing a lot of different people together as part of the local community, to play some football and learn. It’s good vibes.”
London Sport is a charity dedicated to helping Londoners live longer, healthier, and happier lives through physical activity. The London Sport Awards, supported by the City of London Corporation, celebrate the capital’s unsung heroes who encourage more active lifestyles. More information is available at www.londonsport.org.
