Manx athletes will be given workshops that will focus on diet and nutrition to help them prepare for competitions.

More than 70 Isle of Man Sport Aid Academy athletes will attend two workshops led by island-based dietitian Hannah Crawford and local sports nutritionist Angela Clucas on January 19 and February 2.

Hannah and Angela will cover the basic principles of sports nutrition as well as provide practical advice on how to prepare food for competitions and off-island trips.

The group will be joined by Sport Aid athletes, who will share their experiences on the topic during the sessions held at St Ninian’s High School, Douglas.

Sport Aid Academy performance coordinator Chris Quine said: ’The Sport Aid Academy is about sharing information on good practice. People know that they should be eating the right thing, but sometimes knowing what that is can be confusing.

’It is not only important that young athletes eat the right things, but also take in enough food as well. Many athletes underestimate their nutritional needs, so it is important that they eat sufficient quantities to fuel themselves up for their next training session.

’As ever, we will ensure that the information is delivered in a fun and engaging way,’ he added.

The Sport Aid Academy works with more than 70 young sporting stars in the island to equip them with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in elite sport.

Mark Denton, managing director of co-sponsor finance company SMP Partners, said: ’It is a privilege to support Sport Aid Academy as it continues to have a significant impact on the island’s young sporting stars.

’The sessions are always well-thought-out and hands-on, providing the athletes with practical advice in a range of important sporting topics.

’This can only be a step in the right direction in terms of their personal and sporting development.’

Mark Reynolds, director at e-gaming firm Newfield, which is also sponsoring the initiative, said: ’As something that is often overlooked, it is fantastic that Sport Aid Academy is dedicating two workshops to diet and nutrition.

’Diet is important for everyone, but particularly for these athletes when you consider the amount of time and energy these young people put into training on a weekly basis.

’It is crucial they put the right fuel into their bodies to be able to perform at their optimum level.’