Countdown to Rio 2016

July 1, 2016, by Liz Cass

University stars on the Road to Rio

Three sporting alumni from The University of Nottingham have been selected to compete for Team GB at the Rio Olympics next month.

Nick Catlin, who graduated in History, Harry Martin, an Economics alumnus, and George Pinner, who graduated in Management Studies, have been successful in team selection.

They will be joined by former University of Nottingham hockey coach David Ames who led the team to success at British Universities and College Sport (BUCS) last year.

The news comes as The University launches its Olympics website– designed to show support for former and current students who are competing or have an involvement in Rio 2016.

The pages will contain latest news, blogs, videos and competitor profiles as well as academic expertise for all things sporting.

Nick and Harry were part of the squad who finished fourth at London 2012 Olympics.

Harry Martin 3

Harry Martin

As the news was announced Harry tweeted: “So honoured and delighted to be selected for my second Olympics! Thanks to everyone who has supported me over the years and been there when it’s got tough, exciting few months ahead!”

Meanwhile goalkeeper George said: “We’ve got bigger aims than just going to the Olympics to take part these days – that’s not what we’re about anymore. We’re going there looking to win a medal.”

It was double celebrations for The University’s sporting stars as it was also announced that National Badminton League player and captain of the University of Nottingham Badminton team, Chris Adcock had also been selected for Rio 2016.

Ranked top five in the World and a 2012 London Olympian, Chris said: “There will be a lot of hard work ahead to get us in the best shape, but now I just can’t wait to walk out in Rio with Great Britain across my back.”

Dan Tilley, Director of Sport at The University of Nottingham said: “This is a great time for Sport at the University of Nottingham, not only are we opening a new £40m sector-leading David Ross Sports Village, but our sporting heritage continues to grow. It is a great to hear that some of our most recent sporting alumni have been selected for Rio and I wish the team the best of luck.”

During the 2012 games Nottingham was the second most successful University in the medal table.

Find out more about our sporting alumni who have high hopes for Rio here and follow @UoNSport for all the latest selection news.

Posted in AlumniathletesRio 2016