British Cycling's mastermind psychiatrist Peters joins UK Athletics
By Mike Rowbottom
October 22 - Renowned sports psychiatrist Steve Peters, the man who has moulded the minds of Britain's all-conquering cyclists over the last decade, has joined UK Athletics.
Peters is the first significant hire under the leadership of UK Athletics' performance director Neil Black, who took over the post when Charles van Commenee stepped down last month.
"Dr Peters will work closely with Black on driving forward the winning culture of the sport, as well as focusing on selected athletes," a UK Athletics statement issued today read.
"He will also lead a team of handpicked sports psychologists who will work with all athletes on the World Class Performance Programme."
Also joining Peters on the UK Athletics sports psychology team are Sarah Broadhead and Neville Warnke.
World and Olympic Champions Sir Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton have both credited Peters with having played a significant role in their success.
Steve Peters (L) played a key role in the success of cyclists Sir Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton (L)
Peters, who will continue to work with British Cycling in a consultancy role, met the British athletics team for the first time on Friday (October 19).
Commenting on his appointment Peters, a former Masters World Record holder in 200 metres, said: "I'm very excited to be joining the British athletics team and I am looking forward to working with the coaches and athletes on the road to Rio [the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games].
"It's a fantastic time to be involved in athletics and Neil Black is a great appointment as performance director.
"I will work hard to support him as he strives to maximise the team's performance over the next four years."
Black said: "We are delighted to welcome Steve to the team; he is undoubtedly one of the world's best sports psychiatrists.
"He will add significant value and we must harness his expertise as we move forward and build towards greater success in the coming Olympic cycle."
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