Graduate Merrien to run London 2012 marathon
University of Bath graduate Lee Merrien has been selected to run the marathon for Great Britain at the London 2012 Olympic Games.
Lee graduated from the University with an HND in Coach Education and Sports Performance in 2004.
The Guernsey-based athlete was the first British runner home at the 2012 London Marathon, finishing in 17th in a personal best time of 2:13.41.
He wasn’t initially nominated by UK Athletics for a place on the GB team and appealed against this decision. Although his appeal was unsuccessful, the selection panel was asked to consider under its policy whether exceptional circumstances existed that would allow them to nominate him.
The UKA selection panel exercised its discretion to nominate Lee and his selection was announced by the British Olympic Association.
In a blog Lee, who turned 33 last week, said it will be a privilege to run at the Olympics.
“To now have been picked really is the stuff dreams are made of,” he said. “For the selectors to have picked me and to given me the opportunity to pull on the GB vest at an Olympics is the biggest honour and privilege that can be bestowed upon me. Being a home Olympics will make this all the more special.
“I have run thousands of miles preparing for this over the past 10 years so I will be immensely proud to take to the streets of London and represent my country, I have to keep pinching myself,” he added.
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The University of Bath is The Sunday Times University of the Year 2011/12.
