Sportlink TV will have a new face leading its coverage of the 2026 Sportlink Grand Prix Series, with Neil Oxbury taking over as lead presenter from Richard Hancock.
A familiar voice to many in Norfolk sport, Oxbury brings decades of broadcasting experience, a genuine love of grassroots running and a growing reputation as one of the most enthusiastic participants on the local race scene.
A return to his sporting roots
For Oxbury, joining Sportlink TV feels like a natural homecoming.
“This is very much a return to my roots,” he said. “I was sports editor at Radio Broadland back in the 1990s and that’s really where my love for local sport was born.”
Now, with Sportlink TV continuing to expand its reach, he’s relishing the chance to tell the stories of runners across Norfolk once again.
“I’m really looking forward to joining Sportlink TV. It’s a brilliant opportunity to shine a light on some fantastic local sport and celebrate the people who make it what it is.”
From parkrun to the Grand Prix start line
Like many runners, Oxbury’s journey into the sport began in a low-key way. After starting out at Brundall and Lingwood parkruns, he was encouraged to join Lingwood Legits, before quickly finding his way to the Braydeston Milers.
“Before I knew it, I was free every Tuesday night and had made some great friends. Honestly, joining the club was one of the best things I’ve done.”
That sense of community is something he believes sits at the heart of the Sportlink Grand Prix.
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What makes the Series special
There are two elements of the series that particularly excite Oxbury.
“The races take you to corners of Norfolk you don’t always get to see, and I love how inclusive it is,” he said. “You can line up alongside some of the county’s best runners – even if only briefly – and still feel part of something special.”
He’s also keen to focus on storytelling beyond the front of the race.
“I’m really looking forward to catching up with friends and telling the stories of runners right the way through the field.”
Racing… with a camera
Oxbury will be following in the footsteps of Richard Hancock by racing while wearing a GoPro – something he hopes might improve his race craft.
“Richard was brilliant at running hard and still getting PBs with the camera on,” he laughed. “I’ll try to do the same – but I’ll need to remember to run my own race.”
“If I blow up now, it’s all going to be caught on camera. Maybe that will finally teach me some discipline.”
Oxbury will be making his debut at the first race of the 2026 Sportlink Grand Prix Series in January.
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