Jaguar Academy of Sport launched in London. 5 March 2010

Definitive clients were amongst the best of British at the launch of the Jaguar Academy of Sport on Thursday 4 March at the Berkeley Hotel in London.

Sir Ian Botham, Gareth Edwards CBE, Dame Kelly Holmes DBE, Denise Lewis OBE and Sir Steve Redgrave were announced as Patrons, plus David Beckham OBE gave a video message.

The Jaguar Academy of Sport aims to recognise, celebrate and inspire the very best of British sporting talent and success. Amongst the distinguished list of Ambassadors unveiled were Tasha Danvers, Shane Williams, David Roberts and Jamie Baulch, all represented by Definitive.

Tasha Danvers said: “I am really proud to be an Ambassador for the Jaguar Academy of Sport, alongside so many great names in British sport, past and present. Jaguar has such a strong heritage, but I’m looking forward to encouraging the next generation of rising stars through the new Academy.

“The journey to London 2012 is so exciting for British sport and my fond memories of Beijing, make me even more determined to be there representing my country!”

David Roberts said: “I am truly honoured to be linked with such an iconic British brand as Jaguar through the new Academy of Sport. It is particularly exciting to be amongst such true sporting legends as Ian Botham, Steve Redgrave and Gareth Edwards; it is such a prestigious Academy.

“I hope I can inspire young British talent that anything is possible. Jaguar will be giving them the helping hand they need through the bursary scheme, ensuring a great British sporting legacy.”

The official launch was attended by a unique group of sports starts past and present, that included Michael Vaughan OBE, Colin Jackson CBE, Mark Foster and current World Heptathlon Champion Jessica Ennis.

At the heart of the Jaguar Academy, the bursary fund will support new British sporting talent. All sports will be considered and the beneficiaries will be those who demonstrate the greatest potential, real dedication to their sport and an outstanding desire to succeed. The Jaguar Academy will work closely with SportsAid using their proven process to ensure the very best talent is identified. The final decision on the winners will be made by the Patrons of the Jaguar Academy of Sport.

The Jaguar Academy is represented by a news website, www.jaguaracademyofsport.co.uk. It will showcase British sport and its greatest performers past and present.