5 October 2000

Top athletes show their will to excel

The cream of the University of Dundee Excel sports scholars will take part in a series of dynamic and interactive workshops tomorrow (Friday 6 October 2000).

The workshops, to be held at the University's Institute of Sport and Exercise, have been arranged by Kirsteen Cruickshanks, the university's sports scholarship co-ordinator, and form part of the Excel sports scholarship programme and Royal and Ancient golf bursary programme.

"Supporting talented athletes to combine high levels of academic study with training and competition is a central aim of the Institute of Sport and Exercise" commented Kirsteen Cruickshanks. "We are delighted to provide the scholars with access to outstanding training and competition facilities; an effective and dynamic education programme; high levels of support from a personal sports mentor and a nominal cash award to help with training and competition costs."

Each scholar will also benefit from a clothing package of a tracksuit and t-shirts provided through a partnership with Bett Inns Limited as part of their ongoing commitment to supporting local sport.

"The support framework that has been established combined with the commitment of Bett Inns Limited allows the Institute to empower the scholars to achieve their dual pursuit of academic and sporting success," enthused Brian Ewing, Director of the Institute of Sport and Exercise. "Several of our scholars are currently involved in Scottish and Great British squads preparing for major championships such as the Commonwealth Games and World Championships."

Sports Scientist Dr Audrey Duncan, Sports Psychologist Katie Sinnott and Strength and Conditioning experts Paul McPate and Osla Dougal will deliver the workshops to the Excel scholars, which will involve the students in various theoretical and practical situations.

For further information contact Kirsteen Cruickshanks on 01382 345177. Kirsteen will be available for interview at the Institute of Sport and Exercise, Old Hawkhill, University of Dundee from 0900 hours on Friday 6 October.

PHOTO:
Back Row: Robert Phillips, William Ross Middle: Cahill McGinley, Carmin Dow, Lynsey Thomson, Ryal Cathro, Derek McCombe, Helen Blair and Chris Low Bottom: Jonathon O'Parka

INFORMATION SHEET FOR MEDIA
Name: Kirsteen Cruickshanks
Address: Institute of Sport and Exercise
University of Dundee
Old Hawkhill
Dundee DD1 4HN
Tel: 01382 345177

Group: Excel Sports Scholarship Programme

Purpose: To support talented young athletes studying at the University

Interesting Facts: Jonathan Oparka (Athletics) - Auchterhouse
Richard Oparka (Athletics) - Auchterhouse
Chris Low (Athletics) - Monikie
Robert Philips - Perth
Ryan Cathro (Hockey) - Dundee
Carmin Dow (Hockey) - Letham
Lynsey Thomson (Hockey) Guardbridge Jonathan Oparka and Richard Oparka are brothers Bett Inns Limited is a Dundee based company