The British Olympic Association (BOA) today announced UK Online as the Official ISP to Team GB as part of the Easynet sponsorship deal signed in January. UK Online is demonstrating its commitment to broadband by providing all 2004-qualifying Team GB Olympic athletes with a broadband connection. As the BOA relies entirely on sponsorship and donations, UK Online will also be donating £1 to the BOA for every new customer who subscribes to the ISP, or upgrades their existing service, between now and May 31st 2004.

The UK Online partnership also means all the members of Team GB 2004 can easily and quickly keep in touch with their families and friends during Athens 2004 and Turin 2006, and, whilst at home in the UK, Team GB 2004 athletes can experience the advantages of UK Online broadband for themselves, at no cost.

James Gibson, Britain’s world-class Breastroke Swimmer bidding for glory in Athens, attended the BOA and UK Online announcement and was quick to point out the advantages of fast Internet access during training and competitions: ‘When I am training, it is vital for me to keep in touch with my physiotherapist, sports scientist and coach on a day to day basis. Emails are also a great way to write to the family and friends when I am miles away – a snatched telephone conversation is OK but email with UK Online’s Webmail is far better for in-depth reports!’

He continued, ‘I am really pleased that UK Online is supporting Team GB, and their involvement will inject money and communications technology into the team. Here’s to Athens 2004!’

Chris Stening, UK Online’s brand manager, said: ‘We are very proud to be supporting Team GB and providing them with high-speed, always-on Internet access with UK Online Broadband. By helping the athletes stay in touch before, during and after the Olympic Games and helping fans cheer the athletes on via our portal, UK Online is demonstrating its commitment and dedication to the success of Team GB and the achievement of its athletes.’

For more information, please contact:

Sophie Heximer/Emma Cross
Tel: 020 8322 1922
Email: sophieh@gbc.co.uk/emmac@gbc.co.uk

Anne Perry
Tel: 0207 900 8811
Email: anne.perry@uk.easynet.net