A thrilling new sporting opportunity has arrived in the heart of Accrington, and it’s unlike anything you’ve seen before! The North West Pentathlon Hub has set up its base at Accrington Academy, offering an exciting, multi-discipline experience that is perfect for all ages, abilities, and backgrounds. This brand-new grassroots club is more than just a place to train—it’s a hub for adventure, fun, and talent development.
Led by the passionate Dr. Nic Robinson, a coach from Baxenden, the Hub is introducing Modern Pentathlon to the local community. But this isn’t just any one-sport club! The sport encompasses five disciplines: LaserRun, a thrilling blend of running and laser shooting, swimming, epee fencing, obstacle course racing, and the ever-exciting Biathle (run-swim-run). And there’s more! The dynamic Triathle (run, laser shooting, and swim) is also a part of the offering.
This is the perfect sport for anyone with a passion for trying new things. Whether you’re an individual who loves a challenge or a family looking for an exciting activity to train together, the Hub has something for you. Training at the Hub is designed to be fun, challenging, and adaptable to all abilities. The youngest member is just 8 years old, and the oldest is 73—proving that Modern Pentathlon is truly a sport for everyone! Myles, the youngest athlete, says his favourite disciplines are fencing and obstacle course racing, because “you get to be like a monkey ninja!” Tony, 73, loves training with his granddaughter, highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere of the Hub.
But the North West Pentathlon Hub isn’t just about having fun—it’s about elite performance too. The Hub has already produced European and World medallists across a wide range of age categories, and current members are competing on the Pentathlon GB Pathway programme. With the guidance of highly qualified coaches, athletes are being given the tools and support they need to reach their full potential.
As part of the Hub’s mission to grow the sport, they’re not just offering regular training sessions—they’re also hosting friendly competitions in the Accrington area and working with the Hyndburn and Ribble Valley Schools Partnership to introduce more young people to the world of Pentathlon. Through taster sessions and school engagement days, the Hub is determined to raise awareness of this exciting Olympic sport. They are also working with Accrington and Rossendale College to recruit and train volunteer coaches, helping to build a sustainable future for the sport in the region.
Inclusivity is a cornerstone of the Hub’s philosophy. Athletes with physical, visual, or intellectual impairments are welcomed and supported at the Hub’s training days and events. This commitment to accessibility means that everyone has the chance to explore their potential, no matter their background or ability.
“We are beyond excited to offer the community this unique family-friendly range of sports,” says Head Coach Dr. Nic Robinson. “We’re hoping to discover new talent to compete in Pentathlon competitions and create an environment where everyone feels included and supported.”
Thanks to expert coaching, creative training sessions, and fantastic facilities in Accrington, the North West Pentathlon Hub has earned recognition as an official Development Hub by Pentathlon GB, the national governing body.
Hyndburn Leisure, which operates the Leisure facilities at Accrington Academy, is delighted to welcome the North West Pentathlon Hub. Joanne Mortimer, Head of Operations at Hyndburn Leisure, says, “We are thrilled that NW Pentathlon has chosen Accrington Academy as their new home. This is a fantastic opportunity for our community to engage in an exciting and dynamic sport. We look forward to seeing the club grow and inspire local athletes of all ages.”
If you’re looking to get involved—whether as an athlete, coach, or volunteer—the North West Pentathlon Hub is the place to be! For more information, visit their website at https://nwpentathlonhub.co.uk or follow them on social media: Facebook: NWBiathleHub, Instagram: NWPentaHub.
The Hub is also seeking local sponsors to help fund additional kit for schools. If you’re interested in supporting this exciting initiative, please contact Nicola Robinson at [email protected].
We’re incredibly proud to have the North West Pentathlon Hub as part of our sporting community, and we can’t wait to see how it grows!
