Handball gets GB nod
The British Olympic Association have agreed to let the men's and women's handball teams to compete in London 2012.
By Paul Higham @SkySportsPaulH
Last Updated: 19/01/11 1:17pm
The British Olympic Association have agreed to let the men's and women's handball teams to compete in London 2012 after being convinced they deserved a 'host nation qualification place'.
Host nation qualification places are awarded to teams or athletes in events where competitors from the nation hosting the Games do not meet the qualification criteria.
Team GB's handball teams therefore had to persuade the BOA that they would put up a creditable performance if given the chance to take part in London 2012.
BOA chief executive and Team GB chef de mission Andy Hunt confirmed that Olympic chiefs had now been convinced that the handball teams should be given their chance.
"We are extremely pleased to be able to confirm that the British Handball Association have proven to us that they will maximise the opportunities that come with participation at a home games to make a step change in their sport which will also have a lasting legacy for handball," said Hunt.
High levels
"British male and female handball players are competing in high level club competition in Europe and getting the experience they need to deliver a credible performance at the London 2012 Olympics.
"I am confident handball will be using the experience of London 2012 to ensure sustained competitive excellence and use London 2012 as a platform to qualify by right for future Olympics as well as a springboard for growth and capturing the interest and imagination of the British public."
Paul Goodwin, British Handball's CEO, said: "We are delighted with the BOA's decision to endorse both the men's and women's handball teams participation at the London Olympic Games.
"Today's announcement is testimony to the hard work and dedication of our athletes. They have climbed mountains to reach this point and know only too well the challenges that lie ahead.
"Since embarking on this 'Olympic journey', British Handball has always delivered on its promises and we are convinced that our athletes will deliver a credible performance in 2012 and that the British public will not be disappointed."
The BOA have not produced a definitive list of sports under review, although water polo is expected to be next in line to face the BOA's scrutiny.
