Wanted: Tall talent for 2012

UK Sport and the English Institute of Sport are calling for women at least 5"11 tall and men at least 6"3 tall to register their interest in being selected as the potential Rowing, Handball and Volleyball stars of 2012.

Launched with Sir Steve Redgrave in Trafalgar Square, the appeal has gone out to individuals aged 16-25 who are already good at sport.

Anyone interested can register at the UK Sport website by Friday 23 March, when screening will begin.

Speaking at the launch, Chelsea Warr, UK Sport's Performance Consultant said: "With just five and a half years to go, the race is on to unearth some hidden talent of the six foot-plus variety.

"We have a unique opportunity to pluck individuals from relative sporting obscurity and provide the opportunity of a sporting lifetime.

"Becoming an Olympic athlete is one of the hardest journeys that sport has to offer, but with London 2012 on the horizon the opportunities are immense.

"We are looking for people who possess the right talent characteristics to take up the challenge."

27 February 2007