Track cycling legend Dame Laura Kenny has been appointed the president of Commonwealth Games England (CGE). At 32 years old, she is the youngest person to hold the position. She is also the third consecutive woman to assume the role, following in the footsteps of Dame Kelly Holmes and Dame Denise Lewis.
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Dame Laura Kenny’s Remarkable Career and Achievements
Dame Laura Kenny is regarded as one of Britain’s most successful Olympians. Her career boasts an impressive tally of five Olympic gold medals, one silver medal, seven world titles, and 14 European gold medals. Kenny’s accomplishments in track cycling are unparalleled, and her remarkable contributions to the sport have solidified her status as a national icon.
Kenny’s success extends beyond the Olympics, as she competed in three editions of the Commonwealth Games. Her achievements at these prestigious events include winning a gold medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow and additional gold and bronze medals at the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games. These victories were significant milestones in her illustrious career, and her final medals were earned just before she announced her retirement in March 2024.
A New Chapter: Kenny’s Role as President of Commonwealth Games England
As president of CGE, Dame Laura Kenny is poised to become a key ambassador for the Commonwealth Games, especially as the organization prepares for the 2026 Games in Glasgow. The 2026 Commonwealth Games will be a scaled-back version of the traditional multi-sport event, which was originally set to be hosted in Victoria, Australia. However, due to rising costs, the Australian state withdrew from the competition, and Glasgow stepped in as the new host city.
As the youngest president in CGE’s history, Kenny brings a wealth of experience from her years at the top of her sport. CGE’s chair welcomed her appointment, John Steele, who emphasized that Kenny’s role will be crucial in safeguarding the future of the Commonwealth Games and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the movement. Steele highlighted Kenny’s passion for the Games, noting that her experience will inspire current and future generations of Team England athletes.
Kenny’s Passion for the Commonwealth Games
Dame Laura Kenny has always appreciated the unique nature of the Commonwealth Games, and her excitement for her new role is evident. Speaking about her appointment, she expressed her enthusiasm for supporting England’s athletes as they prepare for the upcoming Glasgow Games and beyond. Kenny, a mother of two, shared her eagerness to work with athletes from various sports, not just cycling, and impart her valuable knowledge to help them succeed.
While Kenny’s heart will always be rooted in cycling, she is excited to broaden her horizons and contribute to the success of the Commonwealth Games in a broader context. Her dedication to supporting athletes from different disciplines reflects her desire to leave a lasting impact on the sporting world.
A Leader Who Inspires Future Generations of Athletes
John Steele, the chair of CGE, emphasized that Dame Laura Kenny’s insights and experience will be instrumental in guiding the organization’s leadership team as they look ahead. Steele praised Kenny as one of the nation’s greatest athletes, whose expertise at the highest level of competition will motivate and guide the next generation of Team England competitors. He also noted that Kenny’s influence will help strengthen CGE’s leadership and foster a renewed sense of confidence as the organization prepares for upcoming events.
With just 500 days remaining until the opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, the excitement is building, and Dame Laura Kenny is poised to play a pivotal role in helping to ensure the success of the event. As the Commonwealth Games move closer, her leadership and passion for the Games will undoubtedly make a significant difference.
A Bright Future for the Commonwealth Games
Dame Laura Kenny’s appointment as president of Commonwealth Games England marks an exciting new chapter for the organization. Her extensive experience as one of Britain’s most decorated athletes and her passion for supporting the next generation of athletes makes her the ideal leader to guide CGE into the future. As Glasgow prepares to host the 2026 Games, Kenny’s leadership will be invaluable in ensuring the event’s success and preserving the legacy of the Commonwealth Games for generations to come.
