The Gambia signs London 2012 training camp deal with York institutions
08 June 2010
The Gambia has agreed a Pre Games Training Camp deal involving University of York, York St John University, and York College cementing the ongoing relationship between the city’s institutions and the West African nation.
Lawrence Bruce, the Executive Director of the National Olympics Committee for The Gambia, joined Councillor Nigel Ayre in signing the deal which also involves York Council and Yorkshire Gold.
Bruce revealed his delight at sealing the deal, saying: “The story began almost three years ago when delegates from York became involved with The Gambian Olympic Committee.
“Since then we have developed a very strong relationship and we can now look forward to developing a legacy not only for 2012 but beyond that as well. We are excited to be here and I’m certain our athletes will enjoy training in a city as nice as York.”
The most recent development of the relationship came in March this year when four leading sports scientists from York St John University travelled to The Gambia to share their knowledge with around 40 coaches from the country at a conference.
The visit involved a programme of sport science related coaching, with Gambian coaches and officials clearly impressed by what they witnessed during the four-day conference.
With the Memorandum of Understanding now signed, York can now look forward to a sustained relationship with The Gambia across the fields of sport, education and culture. plans go ahead to twin the University of York with the University of Gambia.
Gary Verity, Chief Executive of Welcome to Yorkshire and Chair of Yorkshire Gold, said: “This is fantastic news for the region. We look forward to hosting cultural and educational opportunities through the partnership with York and The Gambia in the years leading up to and beyond the Games.
“We are keen to give The Gambian team a great Yorkshire welcome, making sure they enjoy their time spent in our region in their preparation for London 2012.”
Lord Seb Coe, Chair of London 2012, added: “This is great news for York. The excellent sporting facilities in the city will help The Gambian team train and prepare well for the London Games.
“It will also lead to a strong relationship between Yorkshire and The Gambia and the development of sporting and cultural ties. This also gives York a chance to get involved in the Games more closely and I congratulate all involved.”
