25 March 2014

A new scholarship fund has been announced today which will support five athletes on their journey towards Rio 2016.

The Jean Pickering Olympic Scholarships have been created in the memory of Jean, who passed away last year, recognising the contributions she made to athletics. The fund will be distributed between five recipients; chosen to receive specific additional support in order to reach their athlete development in the two-year window until the Games.

Windsor Slough Eton and Hounslow sprinter Sophie Papps (coach: Dan Cossins) has been named as one of the five chosen to receive scholarships. The 19 year old recently made her career senior debut when she competed in the 60m at the IAAF World Indoor Championships in Sopot, reaching the semi-finals.

Shot and discus thrower Zane Duquemin (John Hillier) and high jumper Chris Kandu (John Herbert) also made the quintet. They will join British indoor heptathlon champion John Lane (Toni Minichiello) and Sainsbury’s British indoor 60m hurdles bronze medallist David Omoregie (Mike Guest).

Jean was responsible for the forming of the Ron Pickering Memorial Fund in 1991 following the death of husband and longstanding BBC Commentator, Ron. The highly successful scheme assists talented 15-23 year old athletes as they progress into the senior ranks of the sport.

To find out more click here.