Oaklands alumni stars head to Tokyo for Olympic Games

Four of Oaklands College’s former sports academy students have been selected to represent Team GB at the upcoming Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games. 

The games, which were scheduled to run in March 2020, were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving athletes in limbo. But with a revised date came renewed optimism for Team GB athletes, four of which Oaklands alumni.

Reece Prescod, Ama Pipi, Daryll Neita and Celia Quansah were all selected as part of the esteemed Team GB squad travelling to Tokyo.

Reece Prescod, who has transitioned into the senior ranks by securing multiple sub-10 second performances and making a global final left Oaklands in 2015 after completing a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport, Development Coaching and Fitness.

Ama Pipi finished her Level 3 Diploma in Sport and Exercise Sciences in 2014, progressing through the US collegiate system, where she became an NCAA finalist and has continued her success through the European Championships and now onto the Olympic Games.

Daryll Neita, a World Gold medallist in the 4x100m relay looks poised to add to her Olympic success by embarking onto another games this July. Daryll studied a Level 3 Fashion Diploma at Oaklands.

Celia Quansah makes up the final member of the quartet, having quickly established herself as a leading figure within the Women’s Rugby 7s team and could well challenge for a podium.

Speak to Oaklands, Celia said: “The three years spent at Oaklands were pivotal in my development as an athlete. They were some of the best years of my life!”

All four athletes represented the Oaklands Wolves Athletics Academy throughout their time studying at Oaklands College and Head of Athletics Ryan Freckleton spoke of his pride in seeing them gain their Olympic vests.

Ryan said: “Providing a platform which helps to assist the ongoing development of our student athletes is our primary focus. Seeing our graduates continue their development so deep into their lives leaves a pleasant feeling. I hope to see them continue to achieve at the highest level possible.”

Also in contention for a place within the Team GB squad are Paralympians Maria Lyle and Olivia Breen.