MONACO, Tuesday, July 21, 2026 — The World Masters Athletics (WMA) Gallery of Champions will hold its second induction by recognizing five exceptional masters athletes whose achievements in sport are matched by their leadership, service and positive impact on the lives of others during the World Masters Athletics Outdoor Championships in Daegu, Republic of Korea

Launched in 2024, the World Masters Athletics Gallery of Champions recognizes masters athletes whose achievements extend beyond excellence in competition to include outstanding leadership, service and a positive, lasting impact on the lives of others and the communities they serve.

The 2026 WMA Gallery of Champions Induction Ceremony will take place at the Medal Plaza, Daegu Stadium, on August 25, 2026, at 3:00 p.m.

“The World Masters Athletics Gallery of Champions recognizes individuals who exemplify the very best of masters athletics,” said Margit Jungmann, President of World Masters Athletics. “These remarkable athletes have achieved distinction in competition, but what truly sets them apart is the positive difference they continue to make through leadership, service and their commitment to strengthening their communities. They remind us that the true legacy of a champion is measured not only by athletic achievement, but by the lives they inspire and the example they set for others.”

Together, the 2026 inductees represent the enduring values of masters athletics—excellence, resilience, leadership and service—demonstrating that the true measure of a champion extends well beyond the podium.

2026 WMA Gallery of Champions Inductees

John Meagher (Australia) — An outstanding distance runner, educator and coach whose international athletic achievements are matched by decades of inspiring and developing future generations through athletics.

Janelle Delaney (Australia) — A multiple World Masters champion and world record holder recognized not only for her sprinting excellence but also for her sportsmanship and commitment to lifelong participation in athletics.

Leung Chi Cheong (Hong Kong, China) — A World Masters hurdles champion, educator and coach dedicated to developing young athletes through technical excellence while fostering teamwork, discipline and perseverance.

Joe Appiah MBE (Great Britain) — A world-record hurdler whose remarkable return to elite competition following prostate cancer, together with decades of coaching, leadership and advocacy, reflects resilience, service and inspiration.

Scott Eriksson (USA) — A multiple World Masters champion and advocate for healthy aging whose leadership within Masters athletics continues to promote lifelong participation in sport and active living.

Complete biographies and photographs of the 2026 WMA Gallery of Champions inductees are available at:  https://world-masters-athletics.org/gallery-of-champions/