Lewis Hamilton's Mentor Leads Speaking Line Up

Lewis Hamilton's mentor to lead impressive speaking line up

The "powerhouse" behind the blazing performance of new Formula One motorsport sensation Lewis Hamilton will be in Christchurch on October 15 and 16 for the New Zealand Academy of Sport South Island's annual performance forum.

Dr Kerry Spackman, one of the world's top neuroscientists, specialises in elite training for sports people already ranked in the World Top 20 who want to progress to World Number 1. Consultant to McLaren Formula One, Hamilton is his very successful protégée.

The New Zealand-born Dr Spackman is keynote speaker for the Academy of Sport South Island (ASI)'s annual leaders, coaches and sports provider forum. ASI Chief Executive Kereyn Smith is thrilled at being able to attract a presenter of Dr Spackman's calibre.

"He is the inspiration and the motivation behind Lewis Hamilton's phenomenal success, but he's also a thoroughly engaging speaker so we're very keen to hear how he's managed such achievements, and looking forward to some captivating insights into applying such knowledge and support to our own athletes."

Also making a special trip down-under is Hugh McCutcheon, the first New Zealander to coach the US Men's Volleyball team. An engaging and thought-provoking presenter, he will also be sharing his approach to optimising mental application and performance.

The ASI's "Good2great" forum has become a fixture on the New Zealand sporting calendar, the quality of presenters now setting the standard for high performance coach & provider learning here. This year the forum is being supported by SPARC as part of their High Performance programme support.

The who's who of New Zealand performance sport will be in Christchurch for the two day feast of Inspirational speakers and informative workshops, combined with some valuable networking.

"Striving for excellence isn't reserved solely for athletes - this is a way for their coaches and service providers to 'power up' their approach and their skills, which of course leads to improved performance for our elite athletes," Smith explained.

In particular, themes will focus on changing behaviour, innovation, performance psychology, and successful partnerships.

Other trail blazing presenters include:

* Dr Ceri Evans, a forensic psychiatrist, former All Whites captain, ex- professional footballer in the English First Division, Rhodes Scholar and co-founder of GAZING PERFORMANCE.

* Dr Craig Colduck, senior sports physiologist, and strength scientist for the AIS Cycling programme based at the South Australian Academy of Sport in Adelaide.

* Greg Muir, Executive Chairman of Pumpkin Patch, former CEO of the Warehouse, current Chair of Auckland Blues Rugby Franchise, and the 2006 Deloitte/Management Magazine Executive of the Year.

* Mark Inglis, successful paralympian, climber and businessman

About the New Zealand Academy of Sport South Island The Academy South Island, works in partnership with the other parts of the NZAS Network and SPARC to provide high performance support, services and advise to athletes, coaches and other personnel. The focus is on excellence - helping our top athletes achieve optimal performances.

ENDS

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