Redgrave to 'ruffle feathers' to drive sports participation

FIVE-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Steve Redgrave has been appointed as the Government's ‘2012 Sports Champion' in a bid to boost sports participation in the lead up to the London Games.

 CRACKING THE WHIP: Sir Steve Redgrave is not afraid to 'ruffle some feathers' in his new role as 2012 Champion

Redgrave, Great Britain's most successful Olympian, is set to become a member of a new legacy board as London organizers continue their bid to increase participation in sport across the country.

"2012 is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to change the habits of a nation and get across to everyone why sport and physical activity matters," said the former rower. "I won't be afraid to ruffle feathers if I need to."

Within his new role, Redgrave will attempt help the Government reach their target of ensuring youngsters so five hours of sport a week and that one million adults, nationwide, are active

Redgrave will be supported in the role by six other medallists, already working as school sports ambassadors.

The other athletes involved in the project are sprinters Darren Campbell and Jason Gardener, heptathlete Denise Lewis, Paralympic swimmer Sascha Kindred,  ex-badminton ace Gail Emms and sailor Joe Glanfield.

Prime Minister Gordon Brown gave his backing to the appointment.

"Sir Steve Redgrave is exactly the right man to harness the power and reach of the Games," he said.

"He will help inspire the nation to become more actively involved in sport and help deliver a fantastic legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games once the flame has left London."