Easton College News Stories

  

Monday 12th October 2009
An Easton College sport student is cycling to the top.

Jack Clark, aged 17 and currently studying on the National Diploma in Sport at Easton College has certainly fulfilled some of his career targets recently.

As an enthusiast for athletics Jack has always enjoyed sport, but after a knee injury aged 14 Jack was keen to be involved in a new sport, he bought a bike and joined the North Norfolk Wheelers, a cycling club that meets every week for time trials. Jack thoroughly enjoyed being part of the club and soon made lots of friends with other members; some of whom encouraged him to start road racing. Jack found this sport highly interesting, competitive and fun and in September was spotted by the British Cycling Junior Talent Team whilst competing in an event at the Lotus track in Hethel, where he won the race for his age category and came 6th in the adult category.

Since being involved with the British Team Jack has competed at a higher level, most recently in Belgium, where he was entered into two 55 mile stage races; after the event Jack said “this event was great, it was so fast and different from the races I am used to, but I got a kick out of it… I am definitely going back next year”. In early November Jack will be competing again in a mountain bike race (as the road racing season has come to an end) and an off-road time trial event.

“I want to compete in the Olympics one day, either with road cycling or on the track… I love this sport so much. Since being at Easton College my tutor George Clarke has introduced me to Tim Newenham, a Sports Consultant and also to David Hemery, and ex-gold Olympics winner, who have both agreed to mentor me”. Jack continued to say how much he is enjoying his studies at Easton College, by gaining an insight into sports generally as well as healthy eating and ultimately taking the next steps in achieving his dream career.

George Clarke, tutor at Easton College says “Jack Is a modest young man. He’s an elite athlete but has no arrogance or airs and graces about him. Jack just keeps his head down, works hard and is a credit to the college. Jack is a role model to his peers”

The mentoring scheme called ‘Be The Best You Can’ introduced to Easton College by Tim Newenham is a great way for up and coming athletes such as Jack to gain further skills and understanding; Easton College are proud to be part of scheme as it provides support to students at a professional level.