The British Army’s base at Aldershot has now been chosen as the site to be used by Britain’s Olympic athletes in the immediate run-up to the 2012 Games, which are being held in London.

In emerging as the winner, Aldershot beat universities in Loughborough and Bath. It is believed that the site’s closeness to London, as well the military security enforced there, were two influential factors on the decision.

British Army Head Backed Aldershot’s Olympic Use

Aldershot was a late entry in the race to host Team GB, but, vitally, gained early backing from both General Sir Richard Dannatt, the head of the Army, and the British Olympic Association’s head, Simon Clegg – an ex Aldershot-based Army major himself.

Facilities at Aldershot Include 400m Track, 50m Pool

The Centre of Sporting Excellence at Aldershot boasts a number of facilities that the Olympic athletes will draw upon in their training. These include an Olympic-standard Swimming pool – 50 metres in length, and already used by the national synchronised swimming team. Additionally, there is a running track extending to 400 metres, and a pair of indoor sports halls – potentially allowing a large number of Olympic-related sports to be hosted.

Historically, the military and the British Olympic Association have been closely allied. Mr Clegg served at Aldershot, while Dame Kelly Holmes, who won two Olympic medals in 2004, was formerly a physical trainer in the British Army.

Aldershot Used by Army for 150+ Years

Aldershot itself is, in many ways, the spiritual home of the Army. A permanent camp was first created there over 150 years ago and, in 1894, the same site played host to a military tattoo which Queen Victoria attended – an event that still runs annually to this day.

A vast expansion project is currently underway in the area, which, in December 2007, was identified as among the most popular locations in the UK in which to live.

Source – Armed Forces International’s Assistant Editor

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