Zharnel Hughes, Britain’s fastest man and 2024 Olympic medallist, is on a mission to give back.
In partnership with Vita Coco and Greenhouse Sports, Hughes has launched The CocoSpeed Programme, a sprint training initiative aimed at young people—especially those who don’t always get the opportunities they deserve.
And it’s more than just running fast. It’s about building confidence, resilience, and a healthy lifestyle.
The programme officially kicked off at Brunel University’s Indoor Athletics Centre, where Hughes hosted a sprinting masterclass for over 50 schoolkids from Greenhouse Sports.
These young athletes were put through their paces by Hughes himself, getting a taste of what it takes to be Britain’s best.
But beyond the drills and speed tips, Hughes shared his personal story—a journey from a young boy with limited resources to an Olympic medallist.
It’s a story that hits home for these kids, many of whom come from disadvantaged communities.
What Is The CocoSpeed Programme All About?
The CocoSpeed Programme is a personalised sprint training plan created by Hughes and the coaches at Greenhouse Sports.
It’s not just about sprinting—it’s designed to help young people improve their fitness, agility, and confidence.
What’s great about it is that it’s going to be integrated into Greenhouse Sports’ existing basketball programmes, giving these kids a solid foundation in fitness while also helping them become better athletes on the court.
Greenhouse Sports, a charity that provides free coaching and mentorship in schools, focuses on working with children from disadvantaged backgrounds.
By teaming up with someone like Zharnel Hughes, they’re giving these young athletes access to world-class coaching and mentorship they wouldn’t normally have.
Hughes, who’s been an ambassador for Vita Coco, had a lot to say about launching the programme. “To be here today to kickstart and launch The CocoSpeed Programme was an incredible honour and experience. Speaking with and coaching the young people here at Brunel brought back so many memories for when I started out with limited resources, facilities and coaches or mentors to help guide me from an early age.
“My coach has been with me since the start of my career and I enjoyed passing on some of the skills and techniques that I learnt back then to the young people here today.
I look forward to returning to the UK and meeting with today’s attendees to check-in on their progress.”
Hughes isn’t just passing on sprinting techniques—he’s passing on life lessons. His coach has been with him since day one, and now he’s sharing those same lessons with the next generation.
More Than Just Sprinting
Tim Rees, MD at Vita Coco, summed up the spirit of the programme perfectly: “The CocoSpeed Academy consists of a sprint programme designed by Zharnel which will be implemented by Greenhouse coaches to enhance fitness and agility.
At Vita Coco we are passionate about supporting our communities with the tools they need to lead healthier lives.
Sprinting, a simple yet powerful exercise, is something today’s attendees can practice anytime, anywhere.
This programme is about more than improving speed; it’s about encouraging a healthy lifestyle, building resilience, and inspiring young people to believe in their potential, regardless of their starting point.”
Making a Real Difference
Greenhouse Sports CEO Don Barrell couldn’t have been prouder of the event and the programme’s potential. “At Greenhouse Sports, our charity sees the power of sport every day – and when combined with our coaches’ transformational mentoring, it changes lives.
Today’s event, launching the CocoSpeed programme, reflects our shared belief and commitment to creating opportunities for young people through the power of sport and mentorship.
“What makes this programme particularly special is that it’s designed by Zharnel Hughes specifically for our young people, many of whom come from disadvantaged communities.
His journey of overcoming challenges to become Britain’s fastest man is incredibly inspiring and shows them that, with the right support, they too can achieve their dreams.”
What makes The CocoSpeed Programme really stand out is that it’s been tailored specifically for these kids by Hughes himself.
His journey—rising from humble beginnings to becoming Britain’s fastest man—is something these young athletes can look up to.
It shows them that no matter where they start, with the right support and determination, they can achieve incredible things.
For the kids from Bacon’s College, Westminster Academy, and the other schools in attendance, this wasn’t just a sprint clinic.
It was a chance to connect with an elite athlete who’s been in their shoes. Hughes’ story isn’t just inspiring—it’s proof that with hard work, grit, and a bit of belief, anything is possible.
Looking Ahead
The CocoSpeed Programme is already being integrated into Greenhouse Sports’ basketball sessions, but the benefits go beyond improving their game.
This initiative is about building strength, agility, and resilience—both on and off the court. Sprinting is a powerful tool, but it’s the life skills that these kids will carry with them for years to come.
As Hughes prepares to return to the UK to check in on these young athletes’ progress, one thing is clear: The CocoSpeed Programme isn’t just about running faster. It’s about giving young people the tools they need to believe in themselves and their future.