Princeton University’s track and field program continues to produce international-caliber athletes, and this week, two of its standout performers have earned one of the sport’s highest honors. Mena Scatchard and Georgina Scoot have been officially named to the British U23 national team that will compete at the 2025 European U23 Athletics Championships, set to take place in Bergen, Norway, from July 17 to 20.
The announcement marks a major milestone in both athletes’ careers and highlights Princeton’s growing influence on the global athletics stage.
🌟 Mena Scatchard: A Distance Powerhouse
Mena Scatchard, a standout in middle and long-distance events, has consistently demonstrated elite endurance and racecraft during her collegiate career. A native of England, Scatchard has competed in both NCAA cross country and track seasons, where she has repeatedly finished among Princeton’s top runners. Her strengths lie in the 1500m and 5000m, and she’s known for her powerful finishing kick and ability to control pace in tactical races.
During the 2024–2025 season, Scatchard posted multiple personal bests, with a sub-4:18 1500m and strong performances at major invitational meets across the East Coast. Her selection to the U23 national team is a testament to both her consistency and her upward momentum as she continues to develop into a serious contender on the European circuit.
⚡ Georgina Scoot: A Sprinting Sensation
Joining Scatchard on the team is fellow Briton Georgina Scoot, a dynamic sprinter who has made headlines in the Ivy League for her explosiveness in the 200m and 400m events. Scoot has developed a reputation as one of Princeton’s most versatile sprinters, anchoring relays and setting program records along the way.
This past season, Scoot clocked a personal best of 52.71 seconds in the 400m, placing her among the top British U23s in the discipline. She also played a critical role in Princeton’s relay squads, helping secure multiple wins in the 4x400m throughout the spring.
Scoot’s selection reflects her rising status on the international stage and the growing recognition of her potential by British Athletics. With this call-up, she’ll be lining up against the best young talent in Europe—and potentially using the meet as a springboard toward future senior-level international appearances.
🎯 The European U23 Championships: A Proving Ground
Held every two years, the European U23 Athletics Championships offer a critical development opportunity for athletes transitioning between junior and senior competition. Many who have medaled at this level—including stars like Dina Asher-Smith and Jakob Ingebrigtsen—have gone on to become Olympic and World Championship contenders.
For Scatchard and Scoot, the Championships present not only a chance to compete against Europe’s best, but also to gain invaluable experience under the Team GB banner—an honor not lost on either athlete.
“I’m beyond thrilled,” Scatchard said via social media. “Wearing the GB vest has always been a dream.”
Scoot echoed the excitement: “It’s an incredible opportunity to race with the flag on my chest. Can’t wait to give it everything in Bergen!”
🐅 Princeton Pride
Princeton’s Director of Track & Field, Fred Samara, praised the selections:
“Mena and Georgina represent everything we strive for at Princeton—excellence, work ethic, and resilience. Their selection is a huge honor for them and for our program.”
With these selections, Princeton joins the ranks of top U.S. universities contributing talent to international teams. The announcement underscores the Tigers’ growing global footprint in track and field and sets the stage for what could be a breakout summer for both athletes.
🏁 What’s Next?
Scatchard and Scoot will travel to Norway in mid-July to join the rest of the British U23 squad. The European U23 Athletics Championships run from July 17 to 20, with their individual heats and finals scheduled during that window.
Whether they come home with medals or not, their presence on the European stage is a clear signal: these Tigers are ready to roar far beyond Ivy League borders.
