Where to Ski And Snowboard - Travel trade ensures coaches make Games

Travel trade ensures coaches make Games

10th February 2010, by Wendy King

British Ski and Snowboard Federation

Following the demise of the British Ski and Snowboard Federation, members of the travel trade have raised over £10000 to ensure that the British Olympic team has its two coaches in Vancouver.

Eight companies (listed below) came to the aid of the fourteen athletes, who were facing an event without their leader support. The coaches have worked with the squad for several years to get team members into the best shape for the Games, including top British hopefuls Chemmy Alcott and Zoe Gillings.

The travel industry has pitched in and raised the necessary money to pay for the two coaches to fly to Vancouver, supported also by the British Olympic Association. On the eve of the Olympics, tour operator Inghams increased the list to nine companies: they came forward with a huge £5,000 donation – more than doubling the total funds raised so far to £10,250.

Chief Executive of Inghams, Litsa Constantinou said ‘Inghams is glad to be able to make a donation of £5,000 to support the GB Winter Olympic team and ensure that the coaches are able to join the team in Vancouver. Inghams is wishing the GB team lots of luck and good wishes for a successful 2010 Winter Olympics.’

Commercial Director for Snowsport England, Peter Stratton commented: ‘We couldn’t stand by and see one of the most impressive British squads for many years having to prepare and compete without the support of their coaches on hand in Vancouver. This will give a great boost to our chances of bringing home a medal from the 2010 Winter Olympics.’

The nine companies who have lent their support are:

Peak Retreats
Inghams
Erna Low
Crystal Ski
Norfolkline Ferries
Ski Verbier
Holiday Extras
TK Maxx clothing
and SnOasis