Showing Olympic Mettle

The Ulster Sports Academy held its inaugural fundraising ball with special guests Sir Steve Redgrave and Dame Mary Peters. 
The event provided an opportunity for guests to listen to Sir Steve Redgrave, who has been described as ‘the world’s greatest Olympian’ having won five consecutive Olympic gold medals between 1984 and 2000. (Not to mention that he also competed with the British team at the Bobsleigh Championships in Germany in the 1980s!)

The ball helped to promote the work of the Sports Academy, while also raising valuable funds that will assist the Academy in delivering its three strategic aims: to increase participation; develop sport and its structures in higher education; and to enhance the study of sport at the University.

Well-known sports broadcaster, Adrian Logan, compered the evening, which included a fundraising auction of items such as a signed Irish rugby shirt and a holiday in a French chateau.  Guests also heard from the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure, Nelson McCausland MLA.

Nigel Dobson, Co-Director of the Sports Academy, commented: “I would like to give a huge thanks to everyone who attended and supported this fundraiser.  Staff from across the University, business supporters, politicians and celebrity guests helped to make this an unforgettable evening, which significantly raised the University’s profile as a leading institution in sport.”

(left to right) Graeme Maclaughlin, Relationship Director-Barclay's Commercial Bank, Sir Steve Redgrave, Professor Richard Barnett, Vice Chancellor - University of Ulster.