Ready for the Starters Gun: Preparing for the Novena 2026 UK Athletics Indoor Championships
- Mark Dunn
- Feb 12
- 3 min read
The Calm Before the Sprint - By Mark Dunn / Sports News-UK
There is a specific kind of silence that happens a few days before a major meet. My bags are packed, my sensors are clean, and my hard drives are formatted. This weekend, I’m heading to the Utilita Arena in Birmingham for the Novuna UK Athletics Indoor Championships, and if the preparation is anything to go by, it’s going to be a flyer. Me... Im now ready for the starters gun: Preparing for the Novena 2026 UK Athletics Indoor Championships is now complete.
The Invisible Work
Most people see the final image—the grit on a sprinter's face or the moment a high jumper clears the bar. They don't see the hours of "digital housework" that happen beforehand. Today has been all about Photo Mechanic optimization. I’ve built out my metadata templates and shortcut sets for every event and athlete, from Dina Asher-Smith’s highly anticipated return to the 60m to Molly Caudery’s hunt for more pole vault heights.
When you’re trackside and the deadline is "ten minutes ago," you can’t afford to be typing names manually. One keystroke, and the data is there.
What’s at Stake?
This isn’t just another domestic meet. This is the gateway to the World Indoor Championships in Poland next month. The intensity in an indoor arena is magnified; the crowd is closer, the echoes are louder, and the speed feels electric.
Where to Follow
I’ll be shooting for my news agency to provide national and International news coverage, and I’ll also be sharing my personal favorites and "behind the lens" insights right here on Sports News-UK.
Birmingham always delivers a world-class atmosphere, and I can't wait to capture the moments that will define the 2026 season.
5 Names to Watch in Birmingham
1. Dina Asher-Smith (60m)
The British record holder is making her first appearance at the National Indoors in 11 years. She’s started 2026 in blistering form with wins in Boston and New York. Capturing her start in the 60m is always a highlight—blink and you’ll miss the shot.
Dina Asher-Smith - Image by Mark Dunn Photography
Dina Assher Smith and Imani Lansiquot - Image by Mark Dunn Photography
2. The 800m Showdown: Keely Hodgkinson vs. Issy Boffey
This might be the race of the weekend. Olympic champion Keely Hodgkinson faces a serious challenge from Issy Boffey, who recently ran a massive 1:57.43 PB in Boston. Expect a tactical battle that will make for some incredible high-emotion finish-line photos.
Keely Hodgkinson and Izzy Boffey - Images by Mark Dunn Photography
3. Jeremiah Azu (60m)
The reigning World and European Indoor Champion is the man to beat. He’s back training in Cardiff and looking to defend his global crown next month in Poland. Watching him power out of the blocks is a masterclass in explosive strength.
Jeremiha Azu - Image by Mark Dunn Photography
4. Amber Anning (400m)
Amber is coming into this meet on fire after setting a World Lead of 50.51 in Arkansas just last week. She’s closing in on the long-standing UK indoor record—keep an eye on the clock when she hits the final straight.
Amber Anning leading the field - Image by Mark Dunn Photography
5. Molly Caudery (Pole Vault)
The 2024 World Indoor Champion is back in the mix after recovering from an injury sustained late last year. The pole vault is always a favorite for photographers because of the sheer height and the dramatic "point of release"—Molly is the master of that frame.
Stay tuned for galleries and event news starting Saturday!
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