BRITISH ATHLETICS have recently confirmed the appointments of Olympians Darren Campbell as head of (short) sprints and relays and Tim Benjamin as head of (long) sprints and relays, following an open recruitment process.

At the global level, Campbell won four medals at the World Championships, 2 silvers and a bronze in relays and a bronze in the 100 metres in 2003.

Moving on from the disappointment of Atlanta his Olympic fortunes improved in 2000 and 2004. After reaching the final of the 100m at Sydney, Campbell produced a career best performance and led the 200m final until he was overtaken by Kostas Kenteris close to the line.

His individual performances in Athens did not match this level but he had the huge satisfaction of being part of the first British team to win the Olympic 4×100m for 92 years.

Both Benjamin and Campbell will begin their new roles with immediate effect.

Olympic head coach, Christian Malcolm said: “These are great appointments for the sport. Darren and Tim bring a wealth of experience to the roles following their successful careers in and out of the sport.

“I am pleased to bring them into the team as we continue to support athletes and coaches to achieve their goals during 2021 and beyond.”

Campbell said: “I’m really pleased to accept this role and work with Tim and Christian. I felt like it was the right time to get involved with the sport again. I’m excited by the new leadership and the new direction it’s headed in by putting the athlete first.

“I’ve had experience across the board competing, coaching, mentoring and mediating and understand what the athletes and their coaches will be looking for.

“When i was competing, I don’t feel we always got what we needed, and support wasn’t offered properly. I know I can bring that experience and help to ensure athletes have what they need to be successful.

“I’m looking forward to putting my energy into this, giving encouragement to the athletes so they can perform when they need to.”