Fast Performances Credited To Expert Help
16 May 2012
Sports academics Adam Baker and Mark Cheetham working with members of the Derbyshire Athletics Network
Experts in sports performance from the University of Derby Buxton are using their skills to help an England 800 metre runner race back into form in time for this summer's busy athletics season.
Runner Karen Harewood from Corby had an excellent season in 2011 achieving her fastest times over 200, 400 and 800 metres since 2006. She puts these results down to specialist support she has received from Buxton sports academics Adam Baker and Mark Cheetham.
Karen said: "Mark seems to have a sixth sense in relation to the mechanics of athletic movement and is really skilled at tuning into the specific needs of the individual they are working with.
"I was amazed at the differences after working with him for a few months, and know 100% that his contributions had a massive impact on the season I was able to string together last year.
"I felt stronger and more powerful during my sprint work than ever before and am very excited about having the opportunity to continue working with him over the coming season."
Mark and Adam have also seen excellent results with other athletes they have worked with, including young 400m runner, Ben Jones, age 15. Ben recently ran at the at the new London Olympic Stadium as a test event in the 'London Prepares Series'.
Derbyshire's Junior Sportsperson of the Year 2011, 13 year old golfer, Bradley Moore, and 1,500 and 3,000 metre runner Ellie Stevens are two other up and coming sports people to have benefited from the academics' expert touch.
For more information about sport at the University of Derby Buxton visit www.derby.ac.uk/sports
