This article from the Athletics Weekly 29 June features Lewis Forster, Leigh Harriers & AC’s talented young thrower. Here he talks about how he got started, his inspirational father, and what he wants for the future.
While having excellent physical and mental health is crucial to being a successful thrower, having a supportive network can also play a prime part in how far a young thrower will ultimately progress.
Lewis Forster, a six-time Greater Manchester champion and Neuff ambassador, credits many of his family and friends for his success as a javelin thrower. Additionally, his coach is Simon Forster, a former English Schools and Nation champion, who also happens to be Lewis’ dad.
“My dad is the reason why I am a javelin thrower,” says Lewis. “He told me about his success as a javelin thrower back in the 90’s, and this lit a fire inside me to take up athletics.”
Always looking up to his father for guidance and motivation, this father and coach relationship has proven to be very useful for Lewis’ progression over the years as he’s moved up in age categories.
“In a lot of ways, I’m thankful he is my father as well as my coach. During competitions, he will be able to know how I’m feeling without me even saying a word to him. Having this kind of father and coach relationship makes communication really effective.”
While having a solid relationship with his coach, Lewis is also very close with Charlie Evans, another javelin ambassador for Neuff who has recently qualified for this year’s European Under-20 Championships in Jerusalem.
The strong friendship between Lewis and Charlie has been greatly admired amongst other throwers, as they often motivate each other in the lead up to their competitions, both online and on the field. Lewis also loves the camaraderie amongst the javelin community, which he describes as “one big family”.
“We all want each other to do well and do their best. I’ve created life long friends through athletics, which I’m very thankful for. Having good friends makes it really enjoyable too, I’m always looking forward to events and competitions, not only to throw but to see my friends.”
After recently signing with Manhattan College in New York, where he will start a new chapter as a student-athlete in August, Lewis has a lot to look forward to, and he’s only just getting started.
“My next big goal is to make the GB team. I’ve got quite a way to go but I’m more determined than ever and once my A-levels are over, I’m giving it 110%!”
The full article can be seen in 29 June Athletics Weekly https://athleticsweekly.com/aw-promotion/the-throwing-talent-of-tomorrow-1039969071/