Club History

Athletics in Portsmouth has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the 1880s. Over the years, several clubs have formed, merged, and evolved to create the City of Portsmouth Athletic Club (COPAC) as we know it today.

EARLY ATHLETICS IN PORTSMOUTH

1880's - Portsmouth Harriers is founded. Around the same time Portsmouth Beagles is also founded.

1880

1890

Pre 1893 - Portsmouth Road Club (cycling club) is active in the town.

1900

Early 1900's - Portsmouth Spartan AC is formed, later becoming Portsmouth Corinthian AC, which included athletics, gymnastics, and motorcycling.

1910

1909-1911 - Portsmouth Harriers and Portsmouth Beagles combine to form Portsmouth Racing Club.

1912 - Portsmouth Racing Club and Portsmouth Road Club merged to form Portsmouth Road and Racing Club.

1920

1927 - A split sees the formation of a second Portsmouth Harriers club.

1930

1932 - The three existing clubs merged to form Portsmouth Athletic Club.

1940

1945 - After WWII, efforts were made to rebuild the club.

Key figures included Mr. F J Prescott as Chairman and Lt. Cdr Cyril Sinfield as Secretary. Andy Gibb took over the Secretary role later that year and remained in post for an incredible 45 years.

Progression of athletics in the city

1970

1975 - Fareham AC was formed.

Key figures inluded Alan and Kathy Newell.

1980

Mid 1980's - Portsmouth Atalanta, a prominent women’s club, ran two teams in the Southern Women’s League and had over 100 competing athletes.

1986/87 - Portsmouth Atalanta and Fareham AC merged to form Atalanta Fareham AC.

1989 - The club was renamed Portsmouth, Fareham & District to better align with local identity.

city of portsmouth athletic club is formed

1990

1993 - Portsmouth, Fareham & District merged with Portsmouth AC to become City of Portsmouth Athletic Club, reflecting the city’s united athletic strength.

PRESENT DAY

2025

2025 - Today, City of Portsmouth Athletic Club proudly continues its long tradition of athletic excellence, fostering talent across all age groups and disciplines.

Prominent Figures

From club leadership, development, and evolution to remarkable athletic achievement, COPAC has been home to numerous outstanding individuals.

Some of the most notable include:

- Andy Gibb -

Held the Secretary role for 45 years from 1945 to 1990, driving much of the club’s post-war success both at home and abroad.

- Vera Tubb -

A dedicated secretary of Portsmouth Atalanta who played a significant role in developing women’s athletics in the region. Before her passing in 1985, she entrusted Rex Hawksworth and Pauline to continue the club's legacy, ultimately leading to the creation of COPAC.

- Peter Newton -

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