FORMER OLYMPIAN CRAIG BROWN RE-JOINS GB ACADEMY
CRAIG BROWN could bridge an eight-year gap between Olympics after re-joining the Great Britain Academy in Manchester.
Indeed, Londoner Brown, who competed at the 2004 Athens Games, is already on his way to Mexico City for a two-week training camp with the rest of the GB squad.
His return to the fold after a near three absence increases competition for 2012 Olympic nomination in the -80 kg weight division.
Lutalo Muhammad, Damon Sansum, Ruebyn Richards, Andy Deer and former Academy trained Aaron Cook are also in the mix.
Speaking before he left for Central America Brown told GB Taekwondo:"I've had some good results training on my own and got to three finals last year.
"But there is so much expertise in a variety of areas at the Academy that can only help me fulfill my ambition of getting to the Games.
"I have tunnel vision right now. My confidence is higher than ever and the elite coaching staff in Manchester will be very helpful.
"The fact everything is in one place means I can be focussed on the next couple of competitions which are going to be crucial.
"But hopefully the fact I am going back can be mutually beneficial as I've got experience and plenty of know how."
Brown, who celebrates his 29th birthday on February 16, reached the final of last year's British Open.
An exciting contest followed against Cook before he went down 23-11.
He later spoke about the logistical difficulties of organising training and funding away from the Academy set-up.
Indeed, he funded himself through his 'Positive Impact taekwondo project' in his home town of Peckham.
Those worries have temporarily been removed and he admitted:"A lot of pressure has been taken off me.
"I am looking forward to joining the squad, seeing some old friends and getting the best preparation I can for the up and coming competitions."
GB Taekwondo Performance Director Gary Hall said: "We’re delighted that Craig will be joining us at the GB Taekwondo Academy in Manchester.
"He’s obviously a high class athlete with valuable Olympic experience and his presence within the Academy will only heighten the competition across the -80kg division for that one selection place for London 2012.
"Craig has performed well over the last 6 months, notably in reaching the final of the British Open and he’s recognised the benefits of being based at the Academy and the world class support he will be given.
"As a London lad, he wants to ensure that he gives Olympic selection his very best shot over the coming months."
Returning from Mexico City, Brown will contest the German and Dutch Opens in March before hoping to gain selection for the European Championships in Manchester on May 3-6. Tickets for the European Championships go on sale on 6 February 2012.
The Olympic squad of four will be chosen towards the end of May.
