Former javelin world record holder, Steve Backley OBE, has endorsed the redevelopment of Crystal Palace National Sport Centre.
Backley OBE competed many times throughout his career at Crystal Palace, including his world record throw where he threw 90.98 meters.
The centre previously hosted many national and international level competitions, before falling into ruins after the London 2012 Olympics.
The athletics stadium is currently being renovated, with hopes of hosting international competitions again in 2028.
Backley said: “Crystal Palace for decades was the facility that inspired so many great champions.
“In short, it played a huge part in showcasing and developing sport.
“If there were a chance to retain this and allow others to enjoy it I would fully support and endorse its refurbishment back to what was the gold standard for so many sports.”
Backley, 55, is a three time Olympic medallist and four time European Champion, with Crystal Palace being a crucial part of his career as it is where he made history.
Since retiring from competing, Backley has joined the BBC athletics commentary team, where he is the main commentator for field events.
Following the London 2012 Olympics, which saw the London Stadium, now home to West Ham, receive an influx of attention and events – Crystal Palace was neglected with conditions becoming unsafe.
Backley said: “Through the 70’s, 80’s and 90’s Crystal Palace was the go to for the world’s elite to compete and for county and regional domestic events to enjoy what was considered the best stage in the world.
“It offered a standard other countries aspired to.
“Alongside this, many British and international athletes used its vast facilities to hone their skills on a daily basis.
“I had the huge pleasure of enjoying one of the greatest nights in my 20 years of competing by breaking the world record in the summer of 1990 at Crystal Palace, becoming the first man to throw the modern javelin 90m.
“I will forever hold great memories of that moment as well as countless others and the people I met, who have become lifelong friends.”
Project director, Ben Woods, described his desire to bring the stadium into the 21st Century at the stadium’s 60th anniversary earlier this year.
Woods was elected by Sadiq Khan to lead the redevelopment of the Grade II* listed Crystal Palace National Sport Centre by the Greater London Authority in January 2023.
The stadium is home to local club South London Harriers, with the value of the redevelopment on the community already visible as one of the young athletes who has previously been in trouble with police, was described as by their coach as dedicated and focused.
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