Dame Tanni attends Historic Sport Summit

Laureus World Sports Academy members Edwin Moses and Tanni Grey-Thompson participated in an eye opening visit to the West Bank today. The multiple Olympic and Paralympic Gold medallists visited 2 girls school projects in support of PeacePlayers International, an organisation that uses the game of basketball to provide a positive outlet teaching leadership and lifestyle to refugees and Palestinian children.

Laureus World Sport Academy Chairman Edwin Moses said: "Sport is one of the few things that can bridge the divide between the communities which is why the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation recognizes projects like these." He went on "A decade ago, Nelson Mandela spoke of the power of sport to change the world and unite people and communities in the way little else does. Ten years on, standing here in Ramallah, his impassioned words relate clearly to what we have witnessed through this programme. It shows that sport can play a part in changing people’s lives."

British Paralympic legend Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson said: "This has been inspirational and one of the most uplifting Laureus visits I have ever made. I have been fortunate to witness what this programme can deliver to these young girls. It gives them not only the opportunity to play sport, but also teaches them to live healthy and productive lives." She added "I was always taught to aim high and this is the message I wanted to deliver. I am so happy to be here today to do what I can to help this important cause."

On Monday 3rd November, Dame Tanni and Edwin Moses attended the tenth anniversary celebrations for the Peres Peace Centre in Tel Aviv, where they will appeared on a sports panel discussing the topic 'Overcoming Hurdles Through Sport'. Also on the panel will be Joseph Blatter, President of FIFA and Real Madrid Chairman Ramon Calderon.

Chris Holmes MBE raises Paralympic flag over London

Chris Holmes MBE with Boris Johnson, Sebastian Coe, Christine Ohuruogu and Tessa Jowell as the Olympic and Paralympic flags fly over London for the first time.

The Olympic and Paralympic Flags were raised at a special ceremony on 26 September at City Hall to mark London becoming the next Host City of the Summer Games.

Beijing gold medallist Christine Ohuruogu raised the Olympic Flag and Chris Holmes MBE, Britain's most successful Paralympic swimmer, winner of 9 Paralympic gold medals, 6 at a single games, , raised the Paralympic Flag. The Mayor of London Boris Johnson raised the Union flag.

Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, said: 'Raising the flags together at City Hall marks a historic moment for London, following the return of all our athletes who performed so brilliantly at the Beijing Games. The flags signal our dedication and commitment to ensuring that the London Games in 2012 will be a sporting feast open to everyone.'

Chris Holmes MBE said:
"It's a real honour to have been asked to raise the Paralympic flag over London for the first time"

"The Paralympics have the potential to transform this City and our country for the better forever"

"The Paralympics will showcase the World's finest disabled athletes over"

2 weeks of phenomenal performances in the summer of 2012. The raising of the Paralympic flag over London marks the next stage in this journey."

Storey takes her 2nd Gold of the Games

It is another golden storey for Sarah Storey as she takes her 2nd gold medal of the 2008 Beijing Paralymic Games.

Sarah who took to the roads first in the LC1/LC2/CP4 Women's Time trial on the course at the Ming Tomb reservoir, set a blistering pace and finished over a minute ahead of her main rival the USA's Jennifer Schuble in a time of 37 mins 16.65seconds.

The other nine riders stood no chance against Sarah on such terrific form. She said "I am ecstatic to have won after how close this race was to my track race. I felt really strong and although I could still feel the pursuit in my legs a little from Wednesday and I was a bit wobbly on a few corners, I did it!"

"This is what we aimed for the beginning of the year," she said. "We’re overjoyed to have achieved it."

Storey now has seven Paralympic golds, having won five as a Paralympic swimmer.

There are no boundaries to what we can achieve, is Sarah's motto, and she will be available post Beijing for speaking engagements.

It's a golden Storey!

Former swimmer Sarah Storey took her first Paralympic cycling gold medal and set a new world record in the 3k LC1-2, CP4 time trial at the Beijing Paralympic Games on Wednesday evening.

Sarah who set a new world record time of 3.367 said "I can't quite believe that I have just gone 3.36, that would have got me a top eight in the Olympics, the fact that a Paralympian that can finish in that sort of time is amazing . I am so happy I can't remember much about the race except my legs are aching"

The win also enabled Sarah to take her revenge on US rider Jennifer Schuble. In the 500m time trial on Monday Sarah finished 5th behind Schuble despite a much faster time due to the factoring system based on level of disability. However this time Sarah went flat out and even a new world record set by Schuble for her classification could not prevent Storey from claiming her prize!

And more good news was on it's way! Within the hour, Sarah's husband Barney took his second gold medal of the games as tandem pilot to Anthony Kappes in the B&V1 1-3 Sprint to take the GB cycling gold medal haul to an astounding 12!

There are no boundaries to what we can achieve, is Sarah's motto, and she will be available post Beijing for speaking engagements.

Crates ruled out of Paralympics

Danny Crates who carried the GB flag at the Beijing Paralympic Opening ceremony is unable to defend his 800m title in Beijing due to injury

Danny who has been struggling with an injury for a few months was determined to make it to the start line but the latest injury was just one too many and despite all the medical support Danny had to make the heart rending decision not to compete.

Danny said "I am totally devastated to have got so close and once again suffered a blow that has prevented me from doing something I have dreamed about which is defending my title. I have had a few tough months but I really thought I had turned a corner in August but I suffered a setback in Macau and a further injury since arriving in Beijing".

Danny however has dismissed any suggestion of retirement and said "I had no intention of retiring before my injury and have no intention of retiring now. I will go home to assess what is wrong, put it right and work towards my career and there's no reason that could not include 2012".

Danny is an excellent speaker and motivator. He will be available for speaking engagements on his return from Beijing.

Crates carries GB Flag for Paralympic Games Opening Ceremony

Creating Excellence is delighted to congratulate Paralympic athlete Danny Crates on being chosen to carry the GB flag at the Opening Ceremony of 2008 Paralymic Games on Saturday 6th September at the Birds Nest Stadium in Beijing.

Crates said, "It is such a massive honour to be asked to lead out the team on Saturday, when I step onto the track on Saturday with the flag it will be one of the proudest moments of my life".

Danny, the 35 year old from Heybridge in Essex, who will be defending his T46 800m title has been struggling with an Achillies injury in the run up to the Games, but is determined to be on the start line he said, "It is not over yet, I have not endured the last 5 months to not put up a fight in the race and I will be on the start for my first round race on the 14th".

Danny has always continued to take a positive outlook on life since his car accident in Australia in 1994 where he lost an arm. A talented rugby player before his accident, he then turned his attentions to athletics and, as a natural speedster, soon found himself competing with the best in the world. He took Bronze in the 400m in Sydney, then moved to the 800m where he is the current Paralympic, World and European Champion and world record holder in his classification.

As a winner and achiever, Danny is an excellent speaker and motivator. He will be available for speaking engagements on his return from Beijing.

Cooke triumphant in Beijing

Creating Excellence is delighted to add their congratulations to Nicole Cooke on achieving her Olympic Dream and taking the Gold medal in the Women's Road Race at the Beijing Olympic Games.

It was a gruelling race in atrocious conditions but after 3hours 32 mins and 24 seconds that the 25year old Welsh cyclist powered her way in a sprint finish to the line to claim the ultimate prize and become the 2008 Olympic Road Race Champion and the first Welsh competitor to win an Olympic Gold for 36 years!

Not only did Nicole take the first Team GB Gold medal of the Beijing Olympics - the 200th overall in the summer Games but has also laid claim to becoming Britain's first Olympic Road Race medallist

The ecstatic Cooke also paid tribute to her team mates Emma Pooley and Sharon Lawes for their part in her win. "We all knew that we were good riders but the best was to ride as a team" she said

"It's a dream come true" said Nicole" it's fantastic I can't take it in" It was a result of a lot of hard work over the years by so many people not just me so I'd like to thank them all and all my fans I am so glad to have repaid such great support"

Nicole however has no time to celebrate as on Wednesday she will once again take to the road in the Women's time trial

Congratulations to Sarah Storey!

Creating Excellence is delighted to announce that Sarah Storey MBE, has officially been selected to represent Britain at the Beijing 2008 Paralympic Games. Sarah will be competing in the LC1/2/CP4- Pursuit and 500m Time Trial.

This will be Sarah’s fifth Paralympic Games (first Games as a cyclist) and expectations will be high for Britain’s highly decorated female Paralympian following a strong performance at the Paralympic World Cup in Manchester earlier this year.

"I am absolutely delighted to be competing in my 5th Paralympic Games and very excited as this and my first as a cyclist. It will be a new challenge and one which I am ready for but I realise that there is a lot more hard work to be undertaken between now and Beijing"

Sarah Storey takes Gold Medal at Visa Paralympic World Cup track cycling competition

On Friday 9th May Sarah Storey added to her bronze medal, won in the 500m time trial, by taking gold in the LC1/2 3km pursuit at the Visa Paralymic World Cup in Manchster

The swimmer-turned cyclist beat her own world record in the morning heats to go into the final confident of success and managed to catch China’s Ju Fang Zhou after just 1:32.512 to take the victory. "The morning race went really well - it was a very controlled pace and I just wanted to make sure I was in charge for the final"

"I have been threatening to ride quicker than the world record in training and there is hopefully more to come."

The Paralympic World Cup is an exciting global event for elite athletes with a disability. Since its inaugural year in 2005 it has now become firmly established on the International Calendar.It is the biggest international annual multi-sport competition outside of the Paralympic Games and was staged in Manchester from 7th to 11th May, Great Britain in 2008 for the fourth year in succession.

Dame Tanni receives Virgin Atlantic outstanding Contribution to British Sports

Yesterday evening Thursday 1st May at the prestigious 2008 Sports Industry Awards held at Battersea Evolution, Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson was presented with the Virgin Atlantic Outstanding Contribution to British Sport for her outstanding work both on and off the track in the development of the Paralympic movement.

In front of a packed house of industry executives and sport and entertainment celebrities, the recently retired Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson - the greatest Paralympian of all time with a staggering 11 gold medals - received her award from her compatriot and hero, former Welsh fly half and arguably the greatest rugby player of all time, Gareth Edwards.

Following in the footsteps of last year’s winner David Beckham, Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson was presented with the Virgin Atlantic Outstanding Contribution to British Sport for her outstanding work both on and off the track in the development of the Paralympic movement.

Gareth Edwards led the tributes to Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson, commenting: ‘Ever since the first Paralympic Games was held 20 years ago, one figure in this country has been at the heart of driving Paralympic sport forward, both as a competitor and as a rabble-rousing administrator.

‘The fact that she is one of the best known names in all sport is testimony not just to her own ability, but to the many battles she has fought and won through her unfailing celtic tenacity about bringing credibility to disabled athletes and recognition for their undoubted talent.

‘You know you've made it, when all you need is just one name - Tanni.’

Dame Tanni said " I am so surprised but absolutely delighted and honoured to have received such a fantastic award" The Sport Industry Awards is the biggest event of its kind in Europe, recognising and rewarding commercial achievement in UK sport in marketing, PR, sponsorship and digital media. To the entering agencies, brands and governing bodies, it is ac hance to showcase their endeavours of the year in front of their peers and the wider industry, with the chance of picking up one of the highly coveted Awards - now considered the highest endorsement of accomplishment in the world of sport. To the attendees it is also the most important networking occasion in the sport business calendar

Silver medal for Kate Haywood at the 2008 Fina World Short Course Swimming Championships

Thursday 10th April saw Britain's Kate Haywood claim a joint silver medal in the women's 50m breaststroke at the Short Course Fina World Championships which are taking place at the MEN Arena in Manchester from 9th to 13th April. The final saw Kate Haywood produce an impressive performance to claim the silver medal in a world record breaking final.

Haywood went out quickly looking to better her personal best time that she set in the heats. She positioned herself just behind America’s Jessica Hardy who swam an excellent first 25m.

The European medallist Haywood pushed hard and touched in a time of 30.35, just behind Hardy who touched in 29.58 - to claim the gold medal and the new world standard.

Haywood claimed joint silver with Australia’s Sarah Katsoulis who also touched in 30.35.

"I didn’t realise I’d got the silver until I looked at the board for the second time," Haywood said.

"I’m very happy with that but it would have been nice to get that British record but it’s another personal best so that’s positive.

"I knew the field was going to go quick and I just wanted to stay with it but the world record was very special to be a part of."

Danny Crates carries Olympic Torch

London welcomed the Olympic Flame on Sunday 6 April 2008, as part of the global Olympic Torch Relay in the run up to the Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The torch travelled through ten London boroughs from Wembley to Greenwich, with each borough marking its arrival with entertainment and local events, bringing London's colour and vibrancy to life.

The Torch Relay in London ended at a grand finale at the Arena at North Greenwich climaxing with the spectacle of the arrival of the final torchbearer and the lighting of the Olympic Cauldron.

The Olympic flame was carried through London by 80 torchbearers including double Olympic gold medal winner Dame Kelly Holmes and Paralympic Athlete Danny Crates

Danny ran leg no 78 from QEII Pier - Queens walk (opposite the Beckham academy).

Danny said
"I am very honoured to have been asked, and be one of only 80 people selected to carry the torch. For me the flame really does represent the Olympics and Paralympics, and as a competitor I feel that the games have begun when the flame is lit, and to be part of that journey is a privilege I will cherish".

Haywood qualifies for the Olympic Games

Haywood qualifies for the Olympic Games and sets new British Record at the 2008 British Swimming Championships

Loughborough University's Kate Haywood, qualified as the fastest athlete the100m breaststroke heats on 3rd April and also broke the British record with a time of 1:07.56. at the British Swimmming Championships which are taking place at Ponds Forge in Sheffield from 31st march to 6th April 2008

The new British record holder carved out an early lead and touched first after 50m, her turn was just inside the British record time, but entering the final 50m City of Edinburgh swimmer Kirsty Balfour began pushing Haywood all the way.

Balfour swam an impressive final 25m as she began closing the gap on the leader, but Haywood's power was too much for Balfour as Haywood touched home in 1:07.84 to take the gold medal.

"I'm so happy," Haywood said. "I was really pleased with my swim last night and today I tried not to think about swimming quickly but just concentrating on where I was in the race.

"I went out fast in the first 50m and held for the final 50m and am just so pleased to have done it."

With This result Kate has achieved her dream and will be part of the British Swimming Team to compete in the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games.

European Gold for Kate Haywood

Britain's relay women swept to gold on the final night of the European Championships in Eindhoven on 24th March 2008 and with it added their name into the record books.

The 100m Medley quartet of Lizze Simmonds (Lincoln Vulcans), Kate Haywood (Loughborough University), Jemma Lowe (Borough of Stockton) and Fran Halsall (City of Liverpool) smashed the European Record as they overcame the best on the continent.

Britain took gold in 3:59.33 to better the previous standard of 4:01.54, set in 2002 by Germany, with Russia taking the silver in 4:00.47 and the Netherlands the bronze in 4:04.41.

"To be honest I wasn't expecting a performance like that," said Haywood. "We're absolutely thrilled. We were quick this morning after we decided just to give it a go but to get the gold and the record tonight is encouraging for the year.

"We only arrived yesterday and aren't prepared for this meet as we're all focused on trying to make the Olympic team at the British Championships next week.

"We felt we had nothing to lose and that's the way we attacked the race. A lot of those swimmers are rested for this event so to take the gold is fantastic."

The LEN European Swimming Championships took place in Eindhoven, Holland from 18 to 24 March 2008.

Dame Tanni attends The Laureus World Sports Awards 2008

We are delighted to advise that Dame Tanni Grey Thompson will be attending the 2008 Laureus Sports Awards in St Petersburg Russia on February 18th in her capacity as a Laureus Sports Academy member

The Laureus World Sports Awards is the premier global sports awards honouring the greatest sportsmen and women across all sports each year. The winners are selected by the ultimate sports jury - the members of the Laureus World Sports Academy, the living legends of sport honouring the greatest athletes of today.

The Awards will be presented at a globally televised Awards Ceremony staged in the Mariinsky Concert Hall in St.Petersburg. Among the Laureus World Sports Academy members who have already confirmed their presence are: Giacomo Agostini, Marcus Allen,Severiano Ballesteros, Franz Beckenbauer, Boris Becker, Sergey Bubka, Nadia,Comaneci, Marcel Desailly, Kapil Dev, Sean Fitzpatrick ,Dawn Fraser, Marvin Hagler, Tony Hawk, Mike Horn, Miguel Indurain, Kip Keino, Franz Klammer, Edwin Moses, Robby Naish, Ilie Nastase, Morné du Plessis, Hugo Porta, Mark Spitz and Steve Waugh

We are also delighted to announce that paralympic cyclist Sarah Storey is among the nominees for the Laureus World Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability alongside Daniel Dias (Brazil, Swimming), Darren Kenny (UK, Cycling), Michael Teuber (Germany, Cycling), Esther Vergeer (Netherlands, Wheelchair Tennis)

The full list of nominees for the 2008 Laureus World Sports Awards is:

Laureus World Sportsman of the Year
Roger Federer (Switzerland, Tennis), Tyson Gay (US, Athletics), Kaka (Brazil, Football), Michael Phelps (US, Swimming), Kimi Raikkonen (Finland, Motor Racing), Tiger Woods (US, Golf)

Laureus World Sportswoman of the Year
Justine Henin (Belgium, Tennis), Yelena Isinbayeva (Russia, Athletics), Carolina Kluft (Sweden, Athletics), Libby Lenton (Australia, Swimming), Marta (Brazil, Football), Lorena Ochoa (Mexico, Golf)

Laureus World Team of the Year
AC Milan (Italy, Football), Australia Men’s Cricket Team, Ferrari (Italy, Motor Racing), Germany Women’s Football Team, Iraq Football Team, South African Rugby Team

Laureus World Breakthrough of the Year
Alberto Contador (Spain, Cycling), Novak Djokovic (Serbia, Tennis), Tyson Gay (US, Athletics), Lewis Hamilton (UK, Motor Racing), Oscar Pistorius (South Africa, Athletics), Casey Stoner (Australia, Motor Cycling)

Laureus World Comeback of the Year
Gt.Britain Rugby League Team (UK), Christine Ohuruogu (UK, Athletics), Paula Radcliffe (UK, Athletics), Jana Rawlinson (Australia, Athletics), Steve Stricker (US, Golf), Jonny Wilkinson (UK, Rugby Union)

Laureus World Action Sportsperson of the Year
Daniel Dhers (Venezuela, BMX), Mick Fanning (Australia, Surfing), Stephanie Gilmore (Australia, Surfing), Aaron Hadlow (UK, Kiteboarding), Shaun White (US, Snowboarding/Skateboarding), Ryan Sheckler (US, Skateboarding)

Dame Tanni - Grey Thompson recognised for outstanding achievement at North East Sports Awards

TEESSIDERS David Daniell, Geoff Cook, Jemma Lowe and Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson have been recognised for their outstanding achievements at the North East Sports Awards.

The annual event was held at the Seaburn Centre, in Sunderland, and was attended by sportsmen and women, as well as local business representatives who celebrated the success of both winners and nominees.

During the evening, Sunderland manager Roy Keane scooped the top award of Sports Personality of the Year after securing promotion to the Premier League.

Arguably the greatest Paralympian the world has ever seen, Dame Tanni, was presented with the Jackie Milburn award for her outstanding contribution to sport on an international, national and local level.

Over her career, she has won 16 Paralympic medals, including 11 golds and held more than 30 world records.

Dame Tanni said: "This award was really unexpected and I’m thrilled to be here and even more surprised to achieve such an award when I thought I was simply presenting".

"I love being in the North-east, and Redcar is great for training because of the sheer number of roads. I’ve lived here for eight years and find the facilities for disabled athletes fantastic."

Mistry Receives Lifetime Achievement Award

Britain's No 1 men's wheelchair tennis player Jayant Mistry was honoured with a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2007 WheelPower British Wheelchair Sports Awards held on Saturday, 24th November at the Royal Berkshire Conference Centre, part of the Madejski Stadium complex in Reading.

Mistry announced his intention to retire from full-time international competition in July after a glittering career spanning more than 20 years and recently completed his final season as a fully fledged international player.

The Loughborough-based 41-year-old has been the undisputed British Men’s No 1 for more than 15 years, during which time he has won 13 National singles titles.

He has been ranked in the top 10 in the ITF Wheelchair Tennis World rankings in either singles or doubles every year since 1995, with his highest singles ranking being No. 8 in August 2000 and his highest doubles ranking No. 2 in May 2002. During his career he reached the NEC Singles Masters, the year-end highlight on the NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour, which is open to just eight of the world’s top Men, every year between 2000 and 2004.

Mistry won 68 international career titles - 20 singles and 48 doubles titles on the NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour, with perhaps his most famous victory being at the first Wheelchair Men’s Doubles Tournament held at Wimbledon in 2005, with his French partner, Michael Jeremiasz. Later the same year he also partnered Jeremiasz to victory in the Wheelchair Tennis Doubles Masters.

He also won the Men’s Main Draw Doubles title at the prestigious British Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships held in Nottingham in 2002, when he partnered Robin Ammerlaan to victory at one of just four tournaments to have Super Series status, the equivalent of Grand Slam. Jayant’s final singles title was gained in March 2007 at the North East Wheelchair Tournament in Sunderland, when he upset form and the rankings in the semi-finals and final.

Mistry represented Great Britain in 20 World Team Cups and four Paralympic Games. He has been a great ambassador for the sport, both on and off the court. When he has not been playing or training he has spent a considerable amount of time in promoting the sport during personal appearance and helping to encourage new players at Wheelchair Tennis Camps organised by The Tennis Foundation.

Dame Tanni inducted into Welsh Athletics Hall of Fame

On Sunday 11th November 2007 Welsh athletics celebrated its centenary by inducting five members into their newly created hall of fame.

Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson, Colin Jackson, Lynn Davies, Steve Jones and John Disley were all present to celebrate 100 years of Welsh athletics.

The quintet were the first inductees into Welsh athletics' hall of fame.

Ken Harris, 97, was also given a lifetime achievement award by Welsh athletics. Harris is Wales' oldest living champion. Dame Tanni Grey -Thompson is recognised as the UK's most successful paralympian while Jackson is regarded as the greatest 110m hurdler of his generation.

Davies won long-jump gold at the 1964 Olympics while Steve Jones is Wales' greatest ever Marathon runner. Disley was the first ever Welshman to win an Olympic medal in a individual track event taking bronze at the 1952 Helsinki Olympics

Dame Tanni Grey Thompson DBE

SportsAid Legend Award 2007

Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson is the 2007 winner of the SportsAid Legend Award at this year’s Sports Ball. SportsAid alumnus, Dame Tanni was presented with her award by BBC commentator Paul Dickenson.

Considered to be one of the most successful disabled athletes in the UK. Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson competed in events over a wide range of distances, first competing in the 100m at the Junior National Games for Wales in 1984. Over her career she has won a total of 16 Paralympic medals, including 11 golds, held over 30 world records, and won the London Marathon six times between 1997 and 2002. Lord Coe, winner of two gold medals and breaker of twelve world records, led the tributes and said, "She has dominated her sport for twenty years, she has been an inspiration and transcended disability sport".

Tim Lawler, SportsAid’s Chief Executive added "We’re just very pleased to be able to recognise Dame Tanni’s work in supporting SportsAid as well as her outstanding contribution to British sport and the Sports Ball is the obvious event at which to do this,". "The word legend has a mythical feel to it, something extraordinary, and we feel Tanni genuinely holds this status. As a SportsAid grant recipient, we’re very proud of her."

The 2007 Sports Ball was once again a lively affair, Katharine Merry and Andrew Castle hosted the annual party which was held on Tuesday 9th Oct at the Hilton on Park Lane to celebrate SportsAid’s work with emerging British sporting talent. Nearly 700 guests, including many famous sporting heroes such as Ben Ainslie, Linford Christie, Sir Matthew Pinsent, James Cracknell, Ed Coode, Karen Pickering, Bradley Wiggins, Kriss Akabusi, James Hickman, Tessa Sanderson, and Danny Crates all enjoyed a terrific evening.

Danny Crates Graduation

Biggest Graduation ever for the Southend Campus honours Paralympic Champion Danny Crates for his services to sport

Thursday 4th October saw Paralympic Champion Danny Crates donned a cap and gown to receive an honoroary degree for his services to sport and young people in the local area.

The Southend Campus Graduation 2007 took place at the Cliffs Pavilion and the glittering evening saw over 270 students and over 800 guests and well-wishers in attendance at what was the biggest Graduation ceremony that Southend has ever seen.

Students from South East Essex College and the University of Essex formally received their degree certificates. This was the first year that students who have graduated from the University of Essex, have been involved in the ceremony alongside the SEAC students and the event was very well received. This year also saw 14 students gain first class honours degrees, a record for the College!

Danny personally congratulated each and every student as they ascended the stage to be awarded their certificate and was delighted to have received an honorary doctorate.

As a winner and achiever, Danny is an excellent speaker and motivator. His vast experience of making keynote speeches, his natural, charm, humour and ability to tailor his delivery to suit the needs of the client provide that additional impact required to make any event or conference one to remember!

Jayant Mistry, announces retirement

Jayant Mistry, from Leicester, GB’s No. 1 male Wheelchair Tennis player, has today announced his retirement from international competition and GB representation, due to a series of injuries culminating in a shoulder problem that has finally forced him to come to this decision.

Jayant’s contribution to Wheelchair Tennis has been immense over a period of more than 20 years. Jayant has been the undisputed GB No. 1 for more than 15 years, during which time he has won 13 National singles titles.

Jayant has been ranked in the top 10 in the ITF Wheelchair Tennis World rankings in either singles or doubles since 1995, with his highest singles ranking being No. 8 in August 2000 and his highest doubles ranking No. 2 in May 2002. Jayant has won 67 international career titles - 20 singles and 47 doubles titles on the NEC Wheelchair Tennis Tour, with perhaps his most famous victory being at the first Wheelchair Men’s Doubles Tournament held at Wimbledon in 2005, with his French partner, Michael Jeremiasz. Another of his titles was gained at the prestigious Super Series British Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships held in Nottingham, when he partnered Robin Ammerlaan (Netherlands). Jayant’s final singles title was gained in March 2007 at the North East Wheelchair Tournament in Sunderland, when he upset form and the rankings in the semi-finals and final.

Jayant has always taken great pride and pleasure in representing GB in the 20 World Team Cups and 4 Paralympic Games in which he has taken part. He has been a great ambassador for the sport and everyone in GB and World Wheelchair tennis will miss his presence, humour and sportsmanship.

Jayant said today: "This has been one of the most difficult decisions of my life but I could not continue to play if I could not perform to my highest standards and expectations. I have had a most wonderful twenty years and I thank everyone who has helped and supported me to reach levels of performance that I never dreamed were possible when I took up the sport at the age of 19. I will miss tennis enormously but look forward to putting something back into the game that I love so much. I wish all my colleagues in GB the very best of luck in the future and especially in Beijing 2008, where I had so hoped to compete."

Sue Wolstenholme, Director of The British Tennis Foundation, has paid tribute to Jayant today: "Jayant has performed at the very highest levels - he has had an illustrious career in wheelchair tennis and I have nothing but admiration for all he has achieved. Jayant will be sorely missed from GB wheelchair tennis and the international tour. I thank him, on behalf of everyone working in the game, for his outstanding contribution, for his commitment and dedication, and for leading the way to success for other GB players. Jayant has been a great ambassador for the game and I wish him every possible success in his future career, which I hope will include guiding new, young players into the sport."

Martin McElhatton, Chairman of the National Wheelchair Tennis Association, added "I have known Jayant since Wheelchair Tennis began in GB and I thank him most sincerely for all he has done to help to promote the sport, for his great performances and for his friendship. I also wish him the very best of luck in whatever he does in the future and I am sorry that he has been forced to end his career at this stage, and before Beijing 2008"

Congratulations to Dee on her MBE

Well, what an action packed couple of weeks it has been for Dee. After a very long Calais Round Britain race she leapt straight into a car and headed down to Douarnenez for the next sailing event in her schedule, the Mini Fastnet.

There was a brief moment for reflection, however, because on Saturday we heard that Dee had been named on Her Majesty’s Birthday Honours list announcing the award of an MBE. Not surprisingly this has given Dee a certain spring in her step and when we briefly caught up with her before she hit the water again, she had this to say:

‘I am delighted and stunned to have been granted this honour and am greatly looking forward to visiting the Palace later this year to collect my award from Her Majesty The Queen.

‘We have a great sailing heritage here in the UK and I am very proud to have been able to play my part in carrying this forward by setting the record as the first woman to sail solo non-stop around the world against the prevailing winds and currents.

‘I hope I have inspired others to seize every opportunity and achieve their personal goals. I could not have achieved my goal without my fantastic support team and sponsor and am grateful for their continued commitment as I step up to the next level of sailing when I compete in the Vendee Globe next year.’

Simon Weston OBE & ITV News’ 25th anniversary of the Falklands War

Twenty five years ago, a young Welsh Guardsman was aboard the Sir Galahad, a Royal Fleet Auxiliary LSL, thousands of miles from home, in the South Atlantic. What happened next changed his life for ever.

Simon Weston’s personal experience of the Falklands War has been well documented in the media over the years, with his horrific injuries remaining one of the most defining images of the conflict. Yet it was his determination not to allow the situation to overtake his life that has made Simon into the inspiration he is today.

His Latest Chapter

To mark the 25th anniversary of the Falklands War, ITV News has teamed up with Simon who will be anchoring a series of live bulletins direct from the Falklands - "Hero's Return".

From Monday 11th until Thursday 14th June, the series will explore the legacy of the war and meet to some of the people whose lives were changed forever by the conflict. Simon himself will be interviewing a number of those whose lives were adversely affected by the war, including his own mother.

He will also re-visit the battlefield with Alan Craig, an Anglo-Argentine who was conscripted by the Argentine government to fight against his father’s own country, and meet a family divided by war: two brothers, one of whom believed his country rightfully belonged to Argentina, the other firmly siding with the British.

The Falklands series will be shown on the ITV Evening News at 6.30pm and the ITV News at Ten Thirty.

Dame Tanni Grey Thompson DBE

Golden Era Ends for Dame Tanni Grey Thompson DBE

Posted On: Wednesday, 16th May 2007

The clouds had a silver lining for Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson as she crossed the line in her last competitive race - the 200m at the 2007 VISA Paralympic World Cup.

The 11 times Paralympic Gold medallist took the silver medal on a rain soaked track at the Manchester Regional Arena at 4.30pm on Sunday 13 May.

Determined and focused to the last, Tanni crossed the line just 0.21 seconds behind American, Jessica Gali.

For most of her final day she held herself together, concentrating only on her race but during her lap of honour, as many had predicted, she broke down. She said "The crowd support was great but afterwards when I saw my sister and Ian, my husband, all the emotion came flooding out. I can't stop smiling now, but it's been a really emotional day and I've spent a lot of it crying,"

Lord Coe, winner of two gold medals and breaker of twelve world records, led the tributes and said, "She has dominated her sport for twenty years, she has been an inspiration and transcended disability sport".

For further information contact Helen Williams at Creating Excellence, 01245 328 303.

Giles Long MBE

Paralympian Giles Long MBE announces his retirement

Three-time Paralympic Gold medal-winning swimmer, Giles Long, today announced his plans to retire from international competition.

Thirty-year-old Long, who has competed at three Paralympic Games, has amassed a total of six medals and several world championship podium finishes over a career that has spanned almost thirteen years.

He said: "As you go through your career - although you are still improving - those improvements become smaller and smaller and soon you find that the sport catches up with you and eventually overtakes you.

"I went to the world championships in December and it was the first major international that I have been to and came away without a medal. That made me think now was time to retire."

"I’ve had a fantastic career, which has spanned over almost 13 years," he added.

The London-based swimmer made his international swimming debut at the 1994 Swimming World Championships where he won gold in the 100m Butterfly before taking silver in the 4x100m medley relay.

His Paralympic debut came in Atlanta in 1996, where he repeated his World Championship success taking gold in the 100m Butterfly and silver in the 4x100m relay as well as bronze in the 200m Individual Medley.

Four years later in Sydney he retained his 100m Butterfly title and won gold in the 4x100m freestyle relay before taking silver in the 4x100m medley relay.

"My greatest career moments were winning the 100m butterfly in Atlanta - in a world record time and wining silver in the medley relay in Sydney. Although we did only get silver, we knew from the outset that the Canadians were going to win gold so it was a battle for second place between us and Australia," he said.

"We beat the Australians in the final 5 metres of the race, which to do in Australia in front of thousands of Australian supporters was fantastic."

Long, whose last Paralympic Games medal came in Athens in 2004 when he won bronze in the S8 100m butterfly, also classes this as one of his best achievements.

"Winning bronze in Athens was brilliant = it may seem a bit strange to say and looking back it would have been great to have won the gold - but taking bronze made my career successful over three Paralympic Games. It also made me realise what I’d achieved and how far the Paralympic movement had come," he added.

Long, who already does a lot of public, motivational and inspirational speaking, said he plans to increase this work now he has retired from competition but will also be looking for new challenges. Click here for more information.

He said: "It’s quite a nice feeling to be retiring but all of a sudden I’ve got 30 extra hours a week.

"At the moment I’m just going to take a bit of a step back but in the future I may look at getting involved in coaching. I’m particularly interested in coaching at the grass roots level as the most important thing is to get the skills right when you are young."

He added: "My advice to young athletes coming into the sport would be - don’t be afraid of making changes - especially if they mean that you can carry on enjoying the sport because that’s the key thing. If you don’t enjoy it you’ll never win a race and it’s the enjoyment that will keep you focused on being the best."

With extra free time on his hands Long will now also be taking up new activities. He added: "My brother and I have always said that we would like to learn to surf, so I’m planning on doing that this year too."

Dame Tanni Grey Thompson DBE

Dame Tanni-Grey Thompson Announces her Retirement

Posted On: Wednesday, 28th Feb 2007

Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson, Britain's most successful Paralympian, today announced her retirement from international competition.

See and hear the BBC News report here

The 37-year-old Cardiff born athlete, who's based in Redcar, believes now is the right time to move on to a new challenge.

She said: "I have always said that I would wake up one day and know that I would not want to do it any more. There are other things that I want to do and if I want to be successful I need to devote more time to those things.

"I am still competing at a very high level, but as I get older things get harder and I want to retire before I fall apart."

. Dame Tanni's final race in a GB vest will be at the Visa Paralympic World Cup in Manchester in May, where she is hoping to go out on a high.

She said: "Obviously my last race will be emotional, but for me it's business as usual. I will probably be sick, but I will prepare in the same way, go through my same routine, and hopefully win."

Dame Tanni is Britain's best-known Paralympic athlete, having performed at world-class level in distances ranging from 100m to the marathon.

Her 15 Paralympic medals including 11 golds, six gold medals in the London Marathon and her comprehensive set of British and world records make her achievements second to none in the disability sport arena.

In 2000 she was decorated with the OBE in honour of her services to sport, which was followed by Damehood in 2004.

Although she's hanging up her GB vest, Dame Tanni is not leaving sport altogether and is already passing on her expertise to the next generation of Paralympic athletes.

"I am coaching a couple of young athletes who are working towards Beijing and London. I also want to continue with my broadcasting and speaking work but would also welcome the opportunity to put something back into sport."

For further information about Pure Gold contact Martin Corck or Helen Williams at Creating Excellence, 01245 328 303.

For further information about the Visa Paralympic World Cup which takes place in Manchester from 7th to 13th May, contact Lisa Harper at Fast Track, 0207 592 5293 m 07881 822 161 or go to www.visaparalympicworldcup.com

Dame Tanni Grey Thompson DBE

From Prison to Centre Stage - Dame Tanni Grey Thompson launches the Quick Reads series in Cardiff on March 1st, World Book Day.

Posted On: Sunday, 25th Fep 2007

Programme:
1.30 - 11.30 am Cardiff Prison - launch with Jane Davidson AM in the library at Cardiff Prison

On March 1st, World Book Day, Dame Tanni Grey Thompson and Jane Davison AM, Minister for Education Life-Long Learning and Skills will be launching the new Quick Reads titles at Cardiff Prison. Quick Reads are fast-paced, bite-sized books for emergent readers, anyone who has lost the reading habit or simply wants a short, fast read. They have been widely used by literacy programmes in prisons and Vanessa Newton, Head of Learning Skills at Cardiff Prison is delighted to host the launch and highlight their learning programme.

12.30 - 1.30pm Signing at Waterstones, The Hayes Cardiff

2.00 - 3.00pm Signing at W H Smith, Queen Street Cardiff

3.30 - 5.00pm Culture Minister Alun Pugh will give a short address on the Tesco-sponsored stage in the atrium of the Millennium Centre before introducing the celebrated athlete.

Jason Mohammed will then conduct a Meet the Author interview with Dame Tanni. Jason is known to thousands as one of the main presenters of BBC Wales’ flagship news programme, Wales Today and for anchoring Wales on Saturday.

The stage is in the public atrium of the Millennium Centre and the public will be able to ask Tanni questions following her talk. She will then be signing copies of her book in the adjacent Millennium Centre shop.

Aim High is the title of Tanni’s inspirational and autobiographical Quick Read book. It reveals what has motivated the UK’s leading wheelchair athlete, through her best and worst times. Her triumphs, which include winning 16 Olympic medals, eleven of which are gold, countless European titles, six London Marathons and over 30 world records have catapulted this Welsh wheelchair athlete firmly into the public consciousness.

"I was very pleased to be asked to write for this series," said Tanni. "I have a great love of reading and really hope these books help others develop that. Following the launch she will be signing books at Waterstones and WH Smith in Cardiff."

In total there are 12 English and 4 Welsh language titles being launched on March 1st as part of the Quick Reads initiative in the UK. Four of the English language titles are being produced by award-winning Welsh publishers, Accent Press. These include a romance by GMTV presenter and Mirror columnist Fiona Phillips, an action-packed thriller by author Niall Griffiths and Lindsay Ashford’s gripping crime story set in Cardiff’s red-light district.

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

Michael McGrath and Pen Hadow

Launch of their joint initiative:
"Challenging the Barriers to Success"

Posted On: Wednesday, 7th Feb 2007

The McGrath-Hadow Double Act

A unique Expression that Celebrates Difference

An unequivocal Demonstration of Achievement

Focusing on Performance Potential

On the most punishing journey of his life, his legs barely able to carry him, one man painstakingly shuffled the last 150 metres to the North Pole. The other, equally at the limits of his endurance, trekked alone 770 kilometres to the same point

Michael McGrath has lost 65% of his muscle bulk. He has the debilitating muscle wasting disease, Muscular Dystrophy. Normally wheelchair-bound, he is the only disabled person in the world, to have made it on foot to both Poles

Pen Hadow, a professional polar explorer who lost 20% of his body weight on his journey North, is the only Briton to have trekked without resupply all the way to both Poles

The distances may be different, the physical capacities may be different, but the achievement is the same for both men - both have pushed themselves beyond their known mental and physical limits and against all the odds, to break the boundaries of what is known to be humanly possible

McGrath and Hadow are already independently established and much sought-after motivational speakers

But for 2007, The European Year of Equal Opportunities for All, they have brought their experiences together, offering a unique expression that celebrates difference, an unequivocal demonstration of achievement against the odds, of experiences that reveal how both McGrath and Hadow fulfilled their performance potential.

No matter what your background or ability, their presentation ‘Challenging the Barriers to Success’ delivers an insightful, entertaining and gripping double-act. It shows how each man, with his own individual style and mindset, strategies and techniques, finally realised his dream - their combined experiences told through an interwoven narrative with stunning images and video clips, anecdotes and banter

Epitomising determination and focus, McGrath articulates with power, and challenges his own adversity with humour and humility, applying real experiences with relevant learnings for people working in today's competitive business environment. In valuing difference and by inspiring change, McGrath reveals how individuals and organisations can expand their performance potential. Clients including Barclays, Roche Pharmaceutical, DHL, Hilton Hotels, Credit Suisse, Motorola and many places of learning have benefited.

'The Thinking Man's Explorer', Pen's defining quality is his natural ability to make people believe they can achieve anything. He integrates his polar business experience, leadership skills and record-breaking endeavours to give unique perspective and fresh insights into improving performance. Coutts, Nike, Morgan Stanley, Royal Mail, Hewlett Packard, the MOD, UK Sport, and England Rugby's Elite Coaching Programme are just some of the organisations who have used Pen to inspire, motivate and entertain their employees

To book this amazing Double Act contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

Dee Caffari

Dee Caffari Awarded Yachtsman of the Year!

Posted On: Wednesday, 10th Jan 2007

On 10th January 2007 , inspirational yachtswoman and speaker, Dee Caffari won the Raymarine/Yachting Journalists's Associations trophy in The Painted Hall at Greenwich, London.

Dee won the famous crystal and silver trophy for becoming the first woman to sail single-handed, non-stop around the world against the prevailing winds and currents.

Dee said: 'The room was full of influential people in the sailing world - and also my Mum. This was the first award ceremony that she had been to and so I was really pleased she was there to see me triumphant. The fact that it was Lady Pippa Blake awarding the trophy made it twice as special for me. Her late husband is a hero of mine and was a constant source of inspiration during my 178 days at sea on the Aviva Challenge last year. It is lovely that my voyage received recognition and an absolute honour to have my name join those already on this trophy. The list really is spectacular and includes the greats such as Sir Chay Blyth, Sir Robin Knox Johnson, Sir Peter Blake and Dame Ellen MacArthur.

'I would like to thank all the public that voted for me initially, the yachting journalists for their final votes, and Raymarine for sponsoring this very special annual award.'

Ken Hames

Ken Hames' new TV series Beyond Boundaries starts Sunday 1st Oct

Posted On: Friday, 29th Sep 2006

The Land God Made in Anger
Ken Hames’ second inspirational series of "Beyond Boundaries" follows eleven people as they attempt to make history by walking across Africa from Victoria Falls to the Atlantic Ocean - a staggering 2,000 kilometres through crocodile infested swamps of Zambia and Botswana to the burning sands of the Namibian desert.

Ken Hames leads a team of disabled people through terrain that would have the able-bodied on their knees, surviving a raft capsize on the savage rapids of Victoria Falls, through dangerous savannah (lion and big game territory) and across the boiling ancient deserts of Kalahari and Namib.

Watch Ken lead and motivate this extra ordinary team as they experience a life changing journey. Will they succeed? Courage, triumph of spirit and a deeply personal emotional and physical trek into uncharted terrain make this a gripping and completely unique adventure series.

Sun 1 Oct, BBC2: 9:00 pm - 10:00 pm 60mins

Watch the trailer here.

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

Anna Hemmings

Canoeing heroine Anna Hemmings retains world title and wins fifth World Gold

Posted On: Friday, 29th Sep 2006

Anna Hemmings, the British canoeist, today reconfirmed her status at the top of the marathon canoeing world by winning the 2006 ICF Canoe Marathon World Championships in Trémolat, France. Anna, who competed in the K1 Senior Women’s event, completed the punishing 28.95km (approximately 18 mile) course on the River Dordogne in 2 hours, 11 mins and 11 secs, an incredible 6 seconds ahead of Hungary’s Renata Csay and Portugal’s Beatriz Gomes, who finished second and third respectively. It is her fifth World gold medal, and her tenth World and European Championship medal, proving her prominence as Britain’s most successful ever female canoeist.

The gruelling event, which included a field of 25 of the world’s leading canoeists, involved paddling four laps of 7 km plus three ‘portages’ whereby competitors leap out of their canoes and carry them over a 100m sprint across a stretch of sand before re-entering the water for the next lap. Hemmings, who was in the leading pack from the start, went for a characteristic break at the fourth and last portage, but still faced stiff competition from the Hungarian during the last lap. The final 100 metres came down to a sprint, where Hemmings impressively tore away to take gold.

The victory marks the climax of yet another incredible year for Hemmings, who, three years ago, was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and told by medical experts that she may never race again. Having discovered a treatment called ‘Reverse Therapy’, Anna resumed full-time training last year and has since gone on to win a clean sweep of National, European and now World Championship titles for two years in a row.

Anna, , first broke into the top flight of the sport in 1997 when, at the age of just 20, she won the European Championships. In 2000 she reached the semi-finals in the 500m singles discipline at the Sydney Olympic Games, and the following year became only the second person in the history of the sport to win both the single and double Marathon titles at the Canoeing World Championships. In 2005, Anna took her first World Championship title since being struck down by Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, and gold in 2006 marks her continued domination of the sport.

Anna Hemmings, 29, from Walton-upon-Thames, commented: "I am absolutely ecstatic. To win gold here in Trémolat marks the culmination of my year. Last year’s world championships felt great, winning in Perth after having been off the water for so long, but my win today really shows everyone it wasn’t a one-off. I’ve had another great year and I’m back to stay! It was tough race, the Hungarian girl has a fast cruising pace, so it was close and I knew it would be down to a sprint finish. I’d love to thank all of my family, friends and sponsors Pindar and SpinVox for their continued support."

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

Danny Crates

Gold for Danny Crates in Assen

Posted On: Tuesday, 12th Sep 2006

On the final day of action at the IPC World Athletics Championships in Assen the Essex runner Danny Crates took gold in the T46 800m in one minute 54.92 seconds.

The victory gave Crates a full set of championship medals after victories over 800m in the 2004 Athens Paralympics and last year's European Championships.

Crates said: "I wanted it so much and I piled the pressure on myself leading up to the championships - I was desperate to get my hands on the gold. It's a relief to know I've finally done it and that I've got the whole set."

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

Dame Tanni Grey Thompson DBE

Tanni adds bronze to her medal collection!

Posted On: Tuesday, 12th Sep 2006

Tanni Grey Thompson following gold and silver earlier in the week by finishing third in the T53 400m race.

Tanni said: "In the final 50m there was nothing left in the tank. I was flat out and I couldn't have done any more.

"This will be my last worlds - I won't be here in four years time. It's been a good championships and I think I've done all right!"

In total Britain claimed nine gold medals, nine silvers and eight bronzes

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

Colin Jackson

Colin Jackson to appear on "Who Do You Think You Are"

Posted On: Tuesday, 6th Sep 2006

Colin Jackson will be featured in the next series of Who Do You Think You Are which starts on the BBC on Wednesday 6th September. Colin's episode can be seen on the 20th September at 9pm on BBC2.

Born Colin Ray Jackson on 18 February 1967 in Cardiff, Colin feels a Welshman through and through, but he is descended from Jamaican immigrants. For him, the Who Do You Think You Are? journey was a great opportunity to learn about his rich ethnic heritage. He even decided to take a DNA test to find out more about where his roots lay. Follow Colin's amazing story as he travels to Jamaica to find out more about his ancestors and the rich cultural background that shaped him.

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

James Cracknell

James signs up for the Mark Webber challenge

Posted On: Tuesday, 6th Sep 2006

Ever the one to be seeking out new challenges and no stranger to extreme conditions, James Cracknell has signed up to take part in the Mark Webber challenge in Tasmania in early November.

The Challenge is a charity fundraiser which involves participants completing a gruelling six-day, 600km trek through some of Tasmania’s most inhospitable wilderness. Competitors will walk, run, cycle and kayak through various stages of a course that is designed to push participants of the highest fitness levels to their mental and physical limit. The Challenge will raise money for Victorian-based TLC For Kids and Cancer Council Tasmania's Cancer Plus program.

Jayant Mistry

Mistry and Jeremiasz Finish Runners-Up at French Open Wheelchair Championships

Posted On: Monday, 4th July 2006

Reigning Wimbledon Wheelchair Doubles Champions Jayant Mistry (Loughborough, Leicestershire) and Michael Jeremiasz of France finished as runners-up in the Men's Main Draw Doubles on Saturday at the French Open Wheelchair Tennis Championships in Antony, Paris, their final tournament before the defence of their Wimbledon title begins next Saturday, 8th July, at the 2006 Championships.

Second seeds Mistry and Jeremiasz were beaten 7-6(1), 6-1 by top seeds and reigning Paralympic Men's Doubles champions Shingo Kunieda and Satoshi Saida in Saturday's Men's Main Draw Doubles final on clay in Antony, having beaten French fourth seeds Frederic Cazeaudumec and Lahcen Majdi 6-3, 6-1 in Friday's semi-fnals.

"It was a long first set, but we didn't play well in the second and now look forward to having the chance of playing Shingo and Satoshi again on a quicker court at Wimbledon next weekend," said Mistry, who was also seventh seed for the Men's Main Draw Singles in France and saw his singles challenge come to an end in Friday's quarter-finals when he was beaten 7-5, 6-1 by Saida.

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

WIMBLEDON'S SECOND WHEELCHAIR TOURNAMENT

Saturday 8th and Sunday 9th July 2006

Wimbledon Men’s Wheelchair Doubles Tournament will take place at the 2006 Championships over the finals weekend of Saturday, 8th and Sunday , 9th July.

Thursday’s draw pitches defending champions Michael Jeremiasz (FRA) and Jayant Mistry (Loughborough, Leicestershire) against second seed Robin Ammerlaan (NED) and Martin Legner (AUT) for the semi-finals on Saturday, 8th July.

Watch this space for results and reactions!!

Nicole Cooke

Cooke Wins British Road Race

Posted On: Monday, 5th July 2006

Nicole Cooke (Univega) was the winner of the 2006 British Cycling Women's Road Race Championship around the lanes of East Riding on Saturday 24th June 2006 . She finished alone after attacking the field on the last of the mid race circuits and held her lead all the way to the line ahead of Lorna Webb who won the bunch sprint for second in front of junior rider Jo Rowsell who was the bronze medal winner.

"Once again I'm delighted to win the British title. It's something that I don't take for granted and I will be extremely proud to race around the world again for the next 12 months still wearing the British Champions Jersey.I may have won by 25 seconds but it's never easy because I put my reputation on the line every year when I return as the defending champion and I know that all the rider's have me in their sights."

"I look forward to defending the title again in 2007, and I know it's likely to be even harder. In the meantime I hope I can do justice to the British jersey."

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

Nicole Cooke

Triumphant Cooke reigns in Spain

Wales' Nicole Cooke lifted her second World Cup title of the season with victory in the Gran Premio Castilla y Leon in Spain on Sunday.

Posted On: Monday, 9th May 2006

The 23-year-old won in a time of three hours 22 minutes 42 seconds, Cooke just holding off a five-strong chasing pack.

The Univega Raleigh Lifeforce rider now leads the World Cup standings by a healthy 74 points from nearest rival Judith Arndt of Germany.

Nicole said "This was a great comeback after the Commonwealth Games, where I was isolated on my own against 6 Australians and 6 Canadians. Here my team were fantastic. As we came into the last lap with just 8km to go, my team-mate Priska Dopmann (Swi) attacked the leading group.

I was able to sit in that group whilst other teams had to chase Priska. And when they caught her, with under 2km to go, they had all worked very hard. Come the sprint finish, my other team-mate, Joanne Kiesanowsky (Nzl) was able to help me and I am delighted to be able to win here in Spain."

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

Danny Crates

Gold for Danny Crates at the Visa Paralympic World Cup 2006

Posted On: Monday, 8th May 2006

The Visa Paralympic World Cup was a ten day celebration of Paralympic Sport in Manchester, which took place from Friday 28th April to Sunday 7th May.

This event provides an annual platform for British Paralympic athletes to compete at the highest level in their own country. It brings many of the world's greatest sportsmen and women together for a global celebration of their sport and plays a critical role in providing competition between Paralympic games

This year, 360 competitors from 40 countires competed for 179 medals during the seven days of competition and amoungst the most successful track athletes were Danny Crates who took the Gold medal in the 800m T 46 category and Daniel Greaves in the Discus

For further information contact Helen on:
+44 (0) 1245 328303 or email your request to:

helen@creatingexcellence.co.uk

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