Wightlink notches up ten years supporting the Isle of Wight’s most talented athletes
4th November 2022
Wightlink is once again throwing its support behind the Isle of Wight Council’s Talented Athlete scheme which provides practical help to the Island’s most gifted sportsmen and women.
The cross-Solent ferry operator has sponsored the scheme since it was established in 2013, providing athletes with discounted ferry travel to help them attend mainland training and events.
Applications are being welcomed by the council from young people and adults who live on the Isle of Wight and compete at a regional or national level in their sport.
Full details of the scheme and how to apply can be found at www.iow.gov.uk/sportsunit or by emailing [email protected].
Wightlink Chief Executive Keith Greenfield says: “We are really proud to work with the Council’s Talented Athlete scheme – it is a super initiative for the Island’s most gifted sportspeople. We look forward to supporting them with cross-Solent travel in 2023 and wish all those who apply the best of luck.”
Lee Matthews, Isle of Wight Council strategic manager for recreation and public spaces, says: “Our Talented Athlete scheme was developed to recognise and support individuals who are working towards the highest levels of success in their chosen sport. We are very grateful for Wightlink’s support, along with our other partners, without whose help the scheme wouldn’t be possible.”
Twelve-year-old cyclist Harrison Hendy is part of the 2022 scheme: “I feel very proud to be part of the Talented Athlete scheme which has really helped me to progress in cycling. The discounted ferry travel I receive through the scheme makes such a difference as I need to travel off the Island most weekends and sometimes mid-week to compete in races and events around the country. The physio support from top local companies is also helping me to stay strong and healthy as I compete at a higher level.”
The Isle of Wight Talented Athlete Scheme is sponsored by 1Leisure, Wightlink, Love Running, Cowes Chiropractic Clinic, RMA Sports Injury Clinic, Physio Care (Isle of Wight) and Amanda Buggy Soft Tissue Therapy and Nutrition.
Applications are being accepted by the council until Sunday 4 December, with successful applicants receiving support from Thursday 1 January 2023.
Picture caption: Young cyclist Harrison Hendy with Wightlink’s flagship Victoria of Wight
For more information about Wightlink, please contact:
Duty Media Officer
07870906189
[email protected]