The success of local sportsmen and women is invaluable in terms of promoting the Isle of Man to a global audience.
 
That’s the comment from a charity that helps local athletes fulfil their potential.
 
Sarah Corlett, chairman of Isle of Man Sport Aid, said: ‘The Strategy for Sport 2014-2024 highlights that our elite athletes are not only a credit to the Island but also a major benefit to our economy by publicising the Isle of Man on the world stage.
 
‘We have a remarkable number of high performers in an ever-increasing range of sports, achieving outstanding levels of accomplishment. We are also doing more than ever to ensure that pathways are established to higher levels of competition and development for others to follow in their footsteps.’
 
Sarah was speaking as Isle of Man Sport Aid announced the recipients of its scholarship programme for 2015/16.
 
In all, 52 individuals, as well as Isle of Man Cycling’s Regional School of Racing, will receive support.
 
Isle of Man Sport Aid is a registered charity and partners include the Isle of Man Government, businesses and individuals.
 
It has played a vital role in the development of the Island’s sports stars in the past 20 years, recipients having gone on to great things including winning medals at world championships and Commonwealth and Olympic Games.
 
A scholarship typically provides a combination of financial support towards travel and equipment costs plus access to support services at the Isle of Man Sport Institute.
 
Sarah said: ‘Athletes are nominated by their governing bodies and a rigorous selection process takes place by independent Isle of Man Sport Aid Committee members. I am grateful to them for giving up their time and energy in what is a time-consuming but enjoyable process.
 
‘It is always good to meet the athletes face to face and learn about their sports, some of which we may not know much about.’
 
Sarah added: ‘We are grateful to our sponsors, most of whom have been with us for many years. We are particularly pleased that Mark Cavendish, who was supported by Sport Aid from 2000 to 2005, is now one of our principal sponsors. We’d encourage those who wish to help us in our investment in Manx sport in any way to get in touch and join our team of sponsors.’
 
Scholarships will be presented at the Isle of Man Sports Awards, sponsored by Isle of Man Bank, which take place on Thursday 26th March at the Villa Marina. Tickets are available from www.villagaiety.com.