Jaguar Academy of Sport Programme Continues in 2011

Marking one year since its launch, the Jaguar Academy of Sport is already delivering results in supporting young sporting talent. While the programme is set to grow substantially in 2011, the next aspiring stars to receive a bursary from the Jaguar Academy of Sport will be announced at a special ceremony at the Leander Club in Henley-on-Thames on Friday, May 27.

Working with SportsAid, the programme has attracted Britain's greatest sports stars as patrons and ambassadors including Dame Kelly Holmes and Sir Steve Redgrave, as well as donating over £100,000 directly to aspiring stars of the future.

Notable among the Academy of Sport’s alumni is reigning Youth Olympic Champion Jade Jones, who recently won a silver medal at the Taekwondo World Championships in South Korea.

Also, of the 35 young sports people who were provided with support from the Jaguar Academy of Sport, 15 have already moved up to receive Lottery support through UK Sport.

“Jaguar is dedicated torecognising, celebrating and inspiring the very best of British sporting talent. I am proud to say the first year was a great success and it has grown beyond our expectations.  We are delighted to increase our Bursary Awards to 50 individuals this year and hope to mirror the success of 2010,“ stated Geoff Cousins, Managing Director, Jaguar UK.

“The first year was a great success with 15 of the 35 athletes moving up the pathway to receive support through UK Sport.  This is a fantastic success rate and a testament to the dedication and commitment of these young athletes and the support of the Jaguar Academy of Sport,” added Tim Lawler, Chief Executive, SportsAid.