‘We cross the line alone, but we don’t get there alone’ – Christine Ohuruogu on #SALtogether teamwork

Monday 1st December 2025

Photo by Bobby Gavin

4J Award Winners: Club, coach, volunteer and Officials winners

Guest of Honour Christine Ohuruogu savoured the special atmosphere of the 4J Annual Awards – and insisted it was a reminder that the sport in Scotland is a huge team effort.

Jake Wightman and Melanie Woods won the headline 4J Athlete of the Year awards with World and Olympic champion Christine helping us to make those presentations alongside sponsors 4J Studios.

But it was the wide range of roles among the recipients of all our 4J Awards which impressed the GB track legend.

The Guest of Honour, guided through an absorbing chat on the night by our host Bryan Burnett, also stressed that while young athletes – and their coaches and parents – can enjoy early success there should a focus on longer-term development and progression on the pathway.

‘The 4J Awards Dinner is not just about athletes – it’s about the whole community that lifts us up,’ said Christine.

‘Awards shine a spotlight on performances, but they also highlight the people and values that make those performances possible.

‘The Scottish Athletics awards recognise excellence, yes. But also the spirit, commitment and teamwork behind every result.’

Christine chats with Bryan on Saturday night (photo by Bobby Gavin)

Jake and Melanie land top athlete titles

With accolades for Clubs, Coaches, Volunteer of the Year and Official of the Year, as well as across the jogscotland community, that message was very clear at the Hilton Hotel.

‘Our sport doesn’t run on talent alone,’ added Christine.

‘It runs on the Officials, coaches, volunteers, and of course the clubs who keep the sport alive every week, every year.

‘For every medal there’s a coach, an Official, a club, and a group of volunteers who made it possible.

‘We as athletes often cross the finish line alone, but we never get there alone.’

As always, there were age group Athlete of the Year awards and the World and Olympic champion had a key message for teenagers and their support teams, too.

‘To the younger athletes across the scene in Scotland: enjoy every moment and celebrate your breakthroughs,’ added Christine.

‘But keep your eyes on the long road ahead. Progress in our sport is built step-by-step.

‘Success can feel instant, but development never is. Be patient, stay grounded, and keep building.’

Christine pictured with Rodger Harkins, who received the 4J Para Athlete of Year trophy on behalf of Melanie Woods – and in full flow during chat with Bryan (photos by Bobby Gavin)