An athletics coach from Westbury has been honoured for her contribution to athletics and her commitment to nurturing talent within her community with an award from England Athletics.
Fiona Price, who coaches both individual athletes and at the Avon Valley Runners, won the Coach of the Year Award for the South West region in Exeter last month. The award was presented by five-time Olympian and European Champion, Jo Pavey.
Fiona said, “I’m absolutely humbled to have received the award; it’s really special.”
Fiona has been coaching the Avon Valley Runners for four years and has been a member of the club for 17 years. Last year, she was given a lifetime membership in recognition of her contributions to the group.
Fiona said, “My husband and I coach on a Wednesday evening, and I individually coach several athletes who have approached me and asked me to take them to their target event, whether it be their first marathon or any other race.”
Fiona’s coaching philosophy is grounded in the belief that one-on-one coaching is essential, particularly when athletes are facing challenges such as illness or injury. “Athletes who become ill or injured need twice as much attention to help them through difficult periods in their training,” Fiona said. This personalised approach has made her a key figure in the success of Avon Valley Runners’ athletes, providing not only technical training but also the emotional support needed to overcome setbacks.
“Coaching is a big part of my life; I absolutely love it,” she added.
Fiona’s personal experience in athletics prompted her to take up mentoring after being coached for ten years by the head of coaching and athlete development for England, Martin Rush.
“Martin encouraged me to get involved with the GB Masters athletics,” she said. “I didn’t take up running until I was 40. I didn’t realise how much fun it was going to be!”
Fiona has won several international competitions for running and has achieved two British records on the track for her age group.
She plans to continue her work with Avon Valley Runners, helping new and experienced athletes. She added, “They inspire me; it’s so rewarding working with these people and seeing them come to fruition. I’m always learning from them, which has helped me develop as a coach as well.”
Pictured: Fiona, left, with five-time Olympian and European Champion, Jo Pavey
