Wightlink has renewed its support for a scheme designed to help talented Isle of Wight athletes pursue their sporting dreams.
Administered and supported by the Isle of Wight Council, the Talented Athlete Programme works with promising athletes of all ages, but has a particular emphasis on young sportsmen and women. As many sports people need to travel regularly to the mainland for competition and training, Wightlink has once again agreed to provide discounted crossings to all 67 people who have qualified for the 2017 Talented Athletes Programme.
The sportspeople are involved in a wide range of pursuits including sailing, hockey, cricket, athletics, cycling, rugby, swimming, moto trials, triathlon, shooting, squash, cycling, badminton and squash.
7-year-old cyclist Harrison Hendy is the youngest sportsperson supported. His mum Nadine says:
“All of Harrison’s competitions are on the mainland and without Wightlink he simply would not be able to compete as often as he currently does. We are very grateful for Wightlink’s support for the Talented Athletes programme.”
Stuart James, Wightlink Marketing and Innovation Director says:
“We are delighted to be able to play a part in helping gifted sports people reach their full potential and achieve further success.
“Our support for the Talented Athletes programme has already helped scores of people from the Island pursue their sporting dreams in a wide range of activities and we look forward to seeing the current group progress.
Article continues below this advertisement “There are some extremely talented sports people and athletes on the Island supported by some very dedicated coaches and parents and we are thrilled to be doing our bit – alongside the Isle of Wight Council and other organisations and businesses – to help these people achieve.”
Alec Broome, Isle of Wight Council sports development officer, adds:
“The Talented Athlete Programme helps take the worry out of the costs of accessing leisure facilities or travel through sponsorship with our partners and leaves our potential stars of the future free to concentrate on their sport.
“The council is pleased to continue to offer this scheme, thanks to our sponsorship partners.”
