Jenny Meadows Back From Altitude Training

Reigning World and European 800m bronze medallist, European Indoor Championships 800m silver medallist and Team GB Olympic hopeful Jenny Meadows has just returned from 5 weeks altitude training in South Africa - courtesy of UK philanthropist Barrie Wells and his Wells Sports Foundation.

The Potchefstroom training camp in the North West province of South Africa is situated at 1350 metres - a significant altitude that Jenny and her team think perfect to train for her event. 

Barrie’s funding enabled Jenny to travel with her coach Trevor (who is also her husband) as well as her physiotherapist, Rob Harris. 

In addition to the fantastic facilities at the camp, Jenny benefitted from one-on-one physio treatment twice a day, additional strength and conditioning sessions, an extra pair of eyes on all her running sessions, not to mention the fact that Rob was able to develop an extensive daily rehabilitation programme relevant to the specific day and the specific altitude.

Jenny commented: "This is the fifth year running that my coach and I have been to Potchefstroom to prepare for the outdoor season at home. 

"We believe this training is fundamental to my preparation for this season and of course, London 2012. 

"To have the financial burden of this essential trip removed by Barrie Wells’ generosity has allowed me to totally focus on my training and be in the best possible shape for the year ahead."

Jenny is one of 17 elite athletes who are training for London Olympics 2012 and beyond and funded by Barrie Wells. Born in Liverpool, he is self-made entrepreneur from the financial services sector who has established the Wells Sports Foundation.

In return for funding these athletes, Barrie asks that they become ‘Ambassadors’ for sport and give back by committing to undertake 6 visits a year to schools to demonstrate to children how sport can help health, change their lives, give focus, provide a stimulus, give them a goal and help them achieve.

Barrie added: "Our Ambassadors are some of Britain's most promising hopes for London 2012 and beyond.  Jenny’s altitude training is so essential for her journey to London 2012 and I am delighted to be able to support her whole team’s presence. 

"She is a perfect Ambassador for UK Sport - engaging with all age groups in a fun and inspiring way to demonstrate that being active and healthy is a fantastic way to leading a fulfilling lifestyle."