Dozens of rising sports stars are set to benefit from extra backing.
Wightlink has renewed its support for the Isle of Wight’s Talented Athlete Scheme, which supports non-professional athletes as they compete at higher levels.
The scheme, coordinated by Isle of Wight Council and backed by several Island-based partners, will support 82 competitors across 23 sports in 2026, offering discounted travel and access to a package of training and health services.
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Sam Woodman, partnerships marketing manager at Wightlink, said: "Wightlink has supported the Talented Athlete Scheme since it began in 2013, and we see first-hand the difference it makes.
"Travel can be a real barrier for Island athletes, so we're proud to help remove that obstacle and support their ambition, dedication and hard work.”
As part of the scheme, Wightlink offers discounted ferry travel, enabling athletes to attend training, competitions and development programmes on the mainland.
Other benefits for successful applicants include free access to leisure centres and retail, physiotherapy, chiropractic and nutritional discounts.
To be eligible, athletes must meet set criteria based on National Governing Body rankings.
The scheme supports both elite performers – ranked among the top athletes nationally or selected for national squads – and junior performers, aged 18 or under, who are excelling at county, regional or national level.
All athletes must be Isle of Wight residents and compete in a Sport England-recognised discipline.
Alec Broome from the Isle of Wight Council highlighted the value of collaboration in sustaining the scheme.
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He said: "The Talented Athlete Scheme continues to go from strength to strength, thanks to the commitment of sponsors like Wightlink.
"This support allows Island athletes to compete on a level playing field and pursue their sporting goals while proudly representing the Isle of Wight."
One athlete benefitting is Mark Longford, who emphasised the importance of the backing.
He said: "Being part of the Isle of Wight Talented Athlete Scheme genuinely means a lot to me.
"It takes the pressure off the logistics and allows me to focus on preparing properly, racing hard and representing the Island the best way I can."
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