Mike has always been a great coach

Published: 28 April, 2011

• AS one of the many people Mike Jackson has trained through the years, I can’t believe Camden are letting Mike go. 

Mike spotted me as a runner when I was in a Camden cross country race at the age of eight. 

He has trained me thoroughly since then and despite me joining new clubs, 

Mike has always been a great coach. 

Without Mike I would not be the Middlesex cross country champion or running in many national races. 

As I was also a swimmer, Mike introduced me to triathlon and I was subsequently accepted into a talent academy for triathlon where many pre-Olympians attend. 

Since then Mike also trained me as a rower and as a result I won a silver medal at the Indoor Rowing National Championships. 

I feel it’s a great shame, with the 2012 Olympics approaching, that Camden should let go of someone as experienced, patient and committed as Mike Jackson who has a gift in supporting children, particularly teenagers. Without Mike’s constant support and dedication I probably would not be where I am now. 

Not many coaches would give up their free time on Sundays to teach a potential triathlete like myself to ride a racing bike. 

Thank you Mike, I will for ever be appreciative and I am sorry that other children will not benefit from your coaching and support.

SOPHIA PARVIZI-WAYNE 
(Year 9) 

• I AM Bella Doolan and I am seven years old. 

I am writing to you because Mike Jackson is not going to work for Camden sports at the Talacre. 

Mike has coached my three big sisters. 

This year I have run my first Camden schools cross country and I have personally enjoyed running and being at the ceremony at the end. 

I would like to be a runner when I am older like my sisters. I would like to run the London mini-marathon for Camden and do the London Youth Games and run for Camden in the London schools.

Don’t let Mike go because without him I will not be able to do all the fun activities in running.

My teachers do not have time to organise the running competitions.

BELLA DOOLAN, NW3