The Next Generation of Jaguar Academy of Sport Athletes To Be Announced

The Jaguar Academy of Sport, working with SportsAid helps provide support to talented young British sports men and women, facing challenges in their respective sports.

The programme has attracted sports stars as patrons and ambassadors including Dame Kelly Holmes and Sir Steve Redgrave as well as donating over £100,000 directly to the stars of the future.

Jade Jones is a prime example of a positive result. The reigning Youth Olympic Champion recently won a silver medal at the Taekwondo World Championships in South Korea. 15 of the 35 young sports people who were provided with support from the Jaguar Academy of Sport have already moved up to receive Lottery support through UK Sport.

The programme is now looking to support more young British sporting talent. The next group of aspiring stars to receive a bursary from the Jaguar Academy of Sport will be announced a ceremony at the Leander Club in Henley-on-Thames on 27th May 2011.

Geoff Cousins, Managing Director, Jaguar UK commented: "Jaguar is dedicated to recognising, 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."

Tim Lawler, Chief Executive, SportsAid commented: "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. Through the Academy's financial commitment and the ongoing athlete mentoring work, this next generation are clearly getting the help they need to succeed. I can't wait to see how the Class of 2011 perform."