Former student, Rion Pierre, revisited The Harefield Academy last week to give us an update on both his academic and sporting progress.

 

Rion has now completed his course in Biomechanics at Brunel University achieving a first class degree. Throughout his time at Brunel he has continued to train for his athletics but unfortunately missed out on competing in the European Championships and the Commonwealth Games because of injury. However, he has not been deterred and is back on track and training hard with a view to gaining a place in the Great Britain team for the London Olympics in 2012 in the 100m, 200m and hopefully the 4 x 100m relay.

 

 

Rion is coached and mentored by Linford Christie, who believes that Rion’s determination, dedication and talent will enable him to become one of the world’s fastest sprinters. Lynford has invited Rion to be part of his sprint squad alongside Commonwealth Champion, Mark-Lewis Francis and World Bronze medallist, Laura Turner. 

 
On the front cover of Athletics Weekly magazine

 

Unlike his training partners, Rion does not receive any sponsorship which he needs if he is to be able to train full-time. While at The Harefield Academy, Rion used to work late night shifts as a chef in a local restaurant to fund his athletics. If he is to compete at the highest level, he really does need some financial help over the next two years leading up to the Olympics.

 

Rion is happy to give something back to those who are able to support him. He is a fantastic role model for all young sports students and will be back at The Academy in the near future to inspire our youngsters to achieve their best both academically and within their chosen sport. 

 

If you feel that you can give Rion any support at all to help him achieve success and a medal for Great Britain at the next Olympics, please click on the link below, which outlines some of the ways in which you can support this 22-year-old Olympic prospect.