Cardiff Met Trio Selected to Represent Wales at 2026 Loughborough International

Cardiff Met University is celebrating a significant sporting achievement after students Jessica Mantle, Lewis Stephens and Dion Griffith were selected to represent Wales at the 2026 Loughborough International.

The prestigious annual competition, often earmarked as the unofficial start of the outdoor track & field season in the UK and held at the Paula Radcliffe Stadium in Loughborough, is one of the most respected events in the UK Athletics calendar, bringing together representative teams from Wales, England, Scotland, GB & Northern Ireland Juniors and Loughborough. 

All three athletes have made a strong impact while studying at Cardiff Met, balancing academic commitments with high-performance training and competition. Their selection underlines both individual excellence and the strength of the University’s performance sport pathway.

Jessica Mantle has earned her individual place in the Wales squad following a period of impressive development and consistent performances which saw her open her season with a BUCS silver medal. Her competitive mindset has marked her out as one of the University’s most promising athletes, with her selection representing a deserved reward for her dedication and resilience.

Lewis Stephens’ call-up in the 4x100m relay comes after an equally impressive run of form.  His performance at last weekend's BUCS Championships has highlighted his potential and ability to contribute at an international level, making his selection a proud moment for both athlete and University.

Completing the Cardiff Met trio is Dion Griffith (men's 3000m), whose selection reflects a breakthrough 12 months both on the track and the road. 

The Loughborough International is widely regarded as a key stepping stone for athletes progressing towards higher levels of competition, often providing a first taste of senior international-style representation. For student-athletes, the opportunity to compete in national colours while continuing academic studies represents a major milestone.

Cardiff Met’s performance and support staff have praised Mantle, Stephens and Griffith for their approach to training and competition whilst managing the demands of university life alongside elite sport. Their success reflects the supportive environment at Cardiff Met, designed to help athletes thrive both academically and athletically.

As preparations continue for the 2026 event, all three athletes will look to build on their current momentum and make a strong contribution to the Wales team. Representing both their country and Cardiff Met University on one of British athletics’ most iconic stages will be a moment of pride for the athletes and the wider University community.

Their selections stand as a powerful endorsement of Cardiff Met’s growing presence within Welsh Athletics and serve as inspiration for fellow student-athletes aspiring to compete at the highest levels.