Laura Kenny Breaks Records as Youngest Commonwealth Games England President

Dame Laura Kenny, Britain's most successful female Olympian with five gold medals, has been appointed as the youngest president in the history of Commonwealth Games England (CGE). At just 32 years old, she follows in the footsteps of Dame Kelly Holmes and Dame Denise Lewis, marking the third consecutive woman to hold this prestigious position.

Kenny's illustrious career includes three Commonwealth Games appearances, where she claimed two golds and a bronze. Her last medals were secured at Birmingham 2022, just before her retirement in March 2024. As president, Kenny will serve as a key ambassador for the upcoming Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games, a scaled-down event after Victoria, Australia, withdrew due to escalating costs.

John Steele, CGE Chair, highlighted Kenny's significance, stating, "Her passion for the Games is undeniable, and her insights will be invaluable. Her experience at the highest level of sport will inspire the next generation of Team England."

Kenny, a mother of two, expressed her enthusiasm for the role, saying, "I love the unique atmosphere of the Commonwealth Games. I’m thrilled to support England’s athletes as they prepare for Glasgow and future Commonwealth Youth Games." She also emphasized her dedication to mentoring athletes across various sports, leveraging her own experiences to guide them.

With 500 days to go until the opening ceremony of the Glasgow Games, Kenny's appointment marks an exciting chapter for CGE, as they look toward the future with renewed confidence.