Lucy Evans (BA Geography, 2004)

Although I studied Geography, many of my most valuable lessons were learned on the sports field. As a sports scholar, I embraced opportunities that stretched far beyond the classroom, taking part in an exchange with American Ivy League universities in 2004 and proudly representing both the University of Birmingham in national competitions and the British Universities team at international matches.

After graduation, my journey in track and field continued. In 2014, I competed at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow; in 2015, having being inspired by my trip to the US with the university team, I returned to the USA, basing my training at Olympic Champion Michael Johnson’s Performance Centre in Dallas. Finally, in 2018, I closed a 20-year career by winning gold for Great Britain in both the 100m and 200m at the World Masters Championships. I retired from competition in 2019, honoured with Lifetime Membership of my athletics club.

Determined to give back to the sport that shaped me, I managed the women’s sprint team at my club in the National Athletics League from 2020 to 2024, navigating the challenges of a cancelled 2020 season due to the pandemic. By 2025, I recognised that years of competing and coaching had equipped me with powerful insights into resilience, motivation, and performance. That realisation inspired me to launch a side career as a keynote speaker, sharing those lessons with others to help them unlock their best.

My time at Birmingham taught me that learning happens everywhere: in the classroom, on the track, and within a team. It instilled in me a deep appreciation for collaboration, perseverance, and the value of passing knowledge forward. For that, I remain profoundly grateful.

Thank you so much to the University of Birmingham.