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Warwickshire is an excellent place to host training and preparation camps for the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games a recent study has concluded.
A scoping study by Peter Banham of Warwickshire College has found the county to be in an excellent position to host such camps due to its existing sporting facility infrastructure.
Much of the county’s current sport facilities and equipment already meet the ‘gold standard’, the stringent specifications laid down by each sports International Federation (IF) and the IOC. While other sporting facilities that are used primarily for general educational and recreational use would need investment, refurbishment and upgrading to meet this standard.
The county further offers top class transport, accommodation, medical backup, and culture and recreation for all athletes competing in any of the 28 Olympic & 19 Paralympic sports.
There are particular strengths in providing for equestrian sports, with excellent top grade facilities at many locations. These include the Royal Agricultural Society of England at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire College at Morton Morrell and Royal Leamington Spa Polo Club.
All are situated within easy reach of the M1 and M40 that connect to Greenwich Park in London, site of the equestrian competitions within the Games. While Rugby to Euston trains take only an hour and nearby Birmingham International Airport has links to the wider International Community.
Further facilities in the county include Draycote Water, suitable for triathlon, canoeing and rowing events, while the Warwickshire College site in Henley in Arden has an excellent athletics track and field.
Nearby sporting centres of excellence outside of the county that are easily accessible include Holme Pierrepont at Nottingham and Loughborough University in Leicestershire.
With top facilities close to London and home to key tourist destinations such as Stratford upon Avon and the Ryder Cup Golf course at The Belfry, the county is surely a winner. |
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Useful links
www.lda.gov.uk
www.london2012.org
www.olympics.org.uk
www.rlspoloclub.com
www.draycotewater.co.uk
www.stoneleigh-park.co.uk
Warwickshire College Equine Sports
National Water Sports Centre Holme Pierrepont
Loughborough University Sports
www.shakespeare-country.co.uk
www.devereonline.co.uk/thebelfry |