03 September 2008

YOUNG NORTH EAST TALENT FEELING INSPIRED FOR LONDON 2012 GAMES

As the dust settles on Team GB’s fantastic success at the Beijing 2008 Olympics, Sport England North East is encouraging the region’s young athletes to take inspiration in order to aim high for the London 2012 Games.

Athletes who have trained in or hail from the North East enjoyed resounding success bringing home 6 medals and with the Paralympics kicking off in Beijing, 6 September, we look forward to supporting an additional 6 athletes from the region, all of whom could add to the great medal tally.

With so many world class athletes, past and present, with North East links it is no wonder the next generation of sporting stars have been motivated to train even harder to ensure they secure their space to compete in London in 2012..

One of the hopefuls is 18 year-old sprinter, Richard Kilty. Richard has a vigorous six-day week training regime covering three track running sessions, one hill running session and two strength training sessions developing power and strength, under coach Jared Deacon - former Olympic finalist and Commonwealth and European gold medallist.

The British junior 150 metres record holder, from Stockton-on-Tees, has competed on a professional level from the young age of 10.

Commenting on the Games and his fellow athletes from the region, Richard says: “I’m enjoying every minute of the Beijing Olympics. Hopefully this will be the last Games I will be sat at home watching and instead hope to be competing at the next ones on my home ground. My main aim as an athlete is to become one of the fastest in the world, known worldwide and constantly winning medals in international competitions.

“Youngsters can access any sport they want within the North East. I would encourage all young people interested in sport to try a range of sporting activities at a young age to discover where their strengths lie. It’s important to be disciplined and ambitious in order to succeed.

“It’s also very important for young people to feel encouraged about sport. I’ve certainly been motivated by the likes of Chris Tomlinson and Jemma Lowe. I’ve known Chris for years. He was in my very first training group and he has inspired me with his achievements and hard work in the run up to the Beijing Olympics.”

Judith Rasmussen, regional director with Sport England North East, said: “The Beijing Olympics has been undoubtedly one of the best Games yet and certainly the most successful for Great Britain for over a century. These Games have raised the aspirations among the region's sportsmen and sportswomen and have paved the way for our future Olympians.

“London 2012 is sure to play host to Olympic athletes from the North East and as a consequence we will in turn raise the profile of the region giving us the opportunity to showcase North East sport to global audiences.”

Other talented athletes hoping to be shortlisted to compete at London 2012 include 800m and 1500m runner Ross Murray, pole vaulter Sally Scott, 400m hurdles runner and England School Champion Niall Flanney and 1500m runner Laura Waitman.

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