19 December 2007

Three of UK Athletics’ World Class Development athletes have been awarded Future Gold Scholarships by Middlesex University.

Sprinters Luke Fagan (Enfield & Haringey), Leevan Yearwood (Victoria Park & Tower Hamlets) and 110m hurdler Gianni Frankis (Newham & Essex Beagles) will receive grants totalling £30,000 over three years.

The Future Gold scheme aims to support students with outstanding sports talent – who can “demonstrate real potential for Olympic Glory in 2012.”

The award effectively gives the athletes free higher education – enabling them to sideline part time work and concentrate on dual goals of gaining a degree and reaching the Olympic Games in 2012.

Frankis, who won bronze at this summer’s European Junior Championships, was certain how the award would make a difference to his progression:

“It takes the pressure off so I can concentrate solely on athletics. Competing at London 2012 would mean all the hard work has totally paid off. But Beijing next year is not a long shot. I believe in myself and my own ability.”

Eric Shirley, UK Athletics Director of Lee Valley High Performance Centre, where all three athletes train, welcomed the news:

“These are three very talented, very hard working young athletes. The fantastic support they have received from Middlesex University is great news and will make a big difference in their preparations.

“The grant awards, along with the support and the training environment they receive from UK Athletics at Lee Valley will give them the best possible opportunity to realise their enormous individual potential.”