PRESS RELEASE

03 March 2007

Impressive performance from ‘On Camp With Kelly’ Runners

In a break from the Championship action, the crowd at Birmingham’s National Indoor Arena have been treated to a specially arranged race featuring runners from Dame Kelly Holmes’ ‘On Camp With Kelly’ initiative. The 1500m pitted nine of the most promised young female athletes in the country against each other, with the performances suggesting we’ll be seeing plenty more of the girls in years to come.

Dame Kelly started ‘On Camp with Kelly’ in early 2004 as a result of her desire to help young athletes learn what it takes to become world class and achieve their dreams. Thanks to the funding provided by sponsor Norwich Union, over 30 young British female endurance athletes have been able to be involved in the initiative which includes educational activities, training camps, races, mentoring from Dame Kelly and financial and medical support.

Today’s race was part of the athletes’ development, giving them valuable experience of competing in front of a large crowd. “On Camp with Kelly is about giving the athletes all the tools they need to achieve at the highest level in athletics,” said Dame Kelly. “Today’s race is great experience for them, and the way they are progressing shows they have the potential to go all the way.”

The race was won by Birmingham University student Hannah England who kicked impressively at the bell to finished 25m ahead of Emma Pallant, with Ellie Stevens in third. England’s time was 4mins 18.54secs