The Legacy

See what former representatives of our Commonwealth nations have said of their past Podge experiences.

Clare Balding OBE TV Presenter and Sports Journalist

I loved my first Sports Podge. Relaxed, refreshing and reassuring to know that people are the most fun to be with, it was the perfect antidote to a long night of watching election results. I had a wonderful time, drank far too much and realised I had when I suggested a floating stadium to a stadium designer. He was very sweet not to dismiss it out of hand.

Dame Kelly Holmes, DBE, MBE (Mil.) President of the Commonwealth Games, England.

Thank you for the invite to the Sports Podge Event, it was very enjoyable. It was a real pleasure to meet people with such a variety of perspectives on sport, in a relaxed atmosphere, over an excellent lunch in an impressive venue. Thank you also for your support to Commonwealth Games England, it is very much appreciated.

Joe Calzaghe, CBE, MBE Undefeated World Champion

I flew in from New York in the morning of the lunch and had thought about phoning ahead to cancel. I am so glad I decided to attend what was a fantastic sporting lunch, I met some great people from the sports industry and would have no hesitation in recommending it to other leaders in the world of sport.

Terry Venables TV Presenter and Sports Journalist for BBC Sport

Just to say thank you very much for the invitation to Sports Podge. I really enjoyed the day. The food was delicious, and it was fascinating to meet such a vast array of interesting people. It was a very well organised function and it would be a privilege to be invited again.

Mick Fitzgerald Champion Jockey.

I thoroughly enjoyed my first sports podge lunch, so much so that I am begging to be added to the list for next year! It was not what I expected and found myself in the company of an array of professionals from all walks of life & the time whizzed by which meant I almost missed my train. I would recommend it to everyone given the opportunity to attend.

Dr Edwin Moses Olympic Legend

Many thanks to you Phil for inviting me to Sports Podge. My wife and I had a terrific time mixing it up with the people that make Sports happen in the UK. I was quite flattered by the many stories that I heard from attendees that were only 8-15 years old when I was competing, sitting in front of the telly with their parents and watching me run and continue to win. I wish that I had these vignettes on video for all to see. Fantastic experience for me!

Bill Sweeney Chief Executive, British Olympic Association

I always enjoy Sportspodge days, one of the benefits of returning to London is to be able to attend on a more regular basis. It’s a highly knowledgeable attendee group and the atmosphere is relaxed, convivial, being highly informative and productive.

Niels De Vos Chief Executive, UK Athletics

Sports Podge is a unique event where the invitation only format guarantees genuine high quality networking without the distraction of people trying to sell you something. A who's who from British Sport, expertly blended by Phil and his team, makes this one of the most enjoyable and interesting dates of the year.

Karen Wallin Chief Executive, Special Olympics Great Britain

I've only missed one Sportspodge lunch in 9 years – it is a great networking opportunity for anyone with a passion in sport set in informal and fun surroundings – not forgetting the great food and amazing service of course!

Karen Pickering MBE Founder & Chair at The Karen Pickering SWIM Foundation

I can just about remember my first Sports Podge, it was supposed to be a lunch and yet it was about 11pm when I left (or was strongly informed it was time to go). Surprisingly, I still get invited back and unsurprisingly, I always accept. A fun, relaxed environment to catch up with old friends & meet new & interesting people from the wide world of sport. Not to be missed.

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