LEAP 2017 is a global athletics development programme aimed at engaging two million children in athletics across 17 developing countries over four years, Londo 2017 officials claimed. 

Based on the success of London 2012's International Inspiration project, which claims to be on target to engage over 12 million children and young people in sport in 20 countries, LEAP 2017 is focused on strengthening the foundations of athletics worldwide and contributing to an even more diverse sport in the future.

Working in partnership with Save the Children - the charity partner of London 2017 – LEAP will give children the opportunity to get involved in events around the globe.

"In addition to creating a spectacular record-breaking event, the London 2017 bid team is determined that the 2017 IAAF World Championships will act as a catalyst for the continued development of our sport," said Sebastian Coe, the President of London 2017. 

"At a time when fewer young people are participating in sport, LEAP 2017 will connect more young people around the world with the opportunity to experience, play and practice sport in their communities which in turn will help grow our sport.

"If we're given the honour of hosting the 2017 IAAF World Championships in London we will work in partnership with the IAAF (International Association of Athletics Federations) to deliver LEAP 2017 in support of their World Plan."

LEAP 2017 will be funded by guaranteed commitments from UK Sport and UK Athletics and supplemented by fundraising activity, and will build on the existing partnership between UK Sport and IAAF to develop international school and youth athletics projects.

LEAP 2017 will further develop athletics educational tools, help stimulate athletics in schools and communities worldwide; develop young people's life and leadership skills through the medium of athletics; and create a positive image for the IAAF and its partners, London officials claimed.

Building on the success of Save the Children's World Marathon Challenge, LEAP will empower young leaders to organise local athletics events in villages, towns and cities across the world, they added.

"We are delighted to be the charity partner of London 2017 and believe LEAP can have a huge global impact," said Justin Forsyth, chief executive of Save the Children.

"Save the Children is committed to help young people around the world fulfil their potential and to bring the world's attention to the plight of children who face a daily struggle to survive .  Community athletics activities as part of LEAP 2017 could provide a wonderful platform to achieve just that." 

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