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Athletics

British athletics legends handed mentor roles

04/08/2006

Four of Britain's most successful athletes have today been appointed by UK Athletics as mentors to assist current senior and junior athletes in their long-term preparations for major championships.

Double Olympic decathlon champion Daley Thompson and Olympic bronze 400m medallist Katharine Merry will work with Britain's junior talent, while Olympic 100m champion Linford Christie and Olympic silver medallist javelin thrower Steve Backley will work with senior athletes.

The move comes as Britain's current crop of top athletes prepare to test themselves against the best on the continent at the European Championships in Gothenburg, Sweden.

It also comes as part of the overall performance vision of UK Athletics and is funded as a result of Norwich Union's £50 million commitment to athletics until 2012 when the Olympic Games will be staged in London.

Introducing the initiative, Dave Collins, performance director of UK Athletics, explained the four mentors have been chosen on the basis of their fine individual histories.

"We have chosen these four athletes as they have demonstrated the commitment required for their respective roles and have tremendous track records as athletes in their own right," he said.

"They each have much to offer the sport of athletics and they have the instant respect of our senior and junior athletes.

"This is the first of the major changes announced as a result of our increased funding package from Norwich Union and we may introduce further mentors as time progresses. We are looking forward to working with all four to help ensure our teams are prepared both physically and mentally for the challenges ahead."

Christie, Britain's greatest ever sprinter, added: "There is a lot of talent in this country and sometimes it is something as simple as self belief that is missing.

"It's great that Norwich Union and UK Athletics have recognised the positive impact that mentors can have and I am looking forward to working with some existing athlete/coach partnerships to help athletes prepare mentally for the international stage."

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