Cook back in British fold
Olympic hopeful Aaron Cook will return to the Team GB fold for this weekend's taekwondo test event in London.
Last Updated: 05/12/11 10:35am
London 2012 hopeful Aaron Cook will return to the Team GB fold for this weekend's taekwondo LOCOG test event at the ExCeL Arena.
Cook endured a disappointing World Championships in Korea - where fellow Brit Sarah Stevenson won gold, while there were silvers for Jade Jones and Michael Harvey and Martin Stamper collected bronze.
Following the event in May, Cook opted out of the Taekwondo World Class Performance Programme and pursued his own regime.
The 20-year-old European under-80kg champion remains comfortable with the decision, and delivered a strong performance to win the recent British Open in Manchester as he aims to land a spot on the Olympic team next summer.
GB performance director Gary Hall feels this weekend's event will help provide all fighters with a taste of what Olympic competition could be like.
"We are delighted Aaron has chosen to compete at the event on the back of his British Open victory," Hall said.
"It is also a great opportunity for us to see some of our emerging talent compete against some of the world's leading players."
Experience
Hall added: "Aaron wants to gain the same experience as everyone else and that includes working with our coaches again.
"The rules and regulations regarding Olympic selection next year are the same for him as everyone else."
Most of the Team GB elite fighters will not be in London this weekend as they gear up for next month's French Open, so an opportunity will be given to those potential Olympians of the future.
"It is a selection event for GB players. I can understand some athletes want to prioritise Paris if it means they get to compete at the ExCeL next summer when it really counts," Hall said.
He added: "This event provides a chance for our performance staff and athletes to familiarise themselves with the competition format and structure.
"It also gives us an opportunity to get to know the venue and how it will operate. We want to ensure we are the best prepared team at London 2012.
"This weekend affords us that chance. Any performances in the ring will be a bonus."
