Over the coming months, alongside his rigorous Olympic training, including preparation for the July FINA World Championships in China, Tom will take his first driving lessons in his new MINI. Supported by MINI UK, he will also be enrolled onto the MINI Drivers at Goodwood programme, the UK's first dedicated motor circuit-based young driver training programme which is focused specifically on teaching safety and developing good driving habits.
Speaking at the handover of the car Tom said "like every other 17 year old I can't wait to get behind the wheel of my first car, but in my case having my driving licence will be a huge help in my training and preparation schedule for the Olympic Games. When I learn a new dive, it's all about practising until I get it right. I'll apply the same practice and determination to learning to drive."
MINI UK is proud to be an official partner to Team GB and the Paralympics GB Team on their journey to the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Acting as the biggest fan for both teams, MINI hopes its support will help to inspire extraordinary performances.
Chosen by the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games (LOCOG) as the Official Automotive Partner, BMW's sustainability credentials will help LOCOG deliver a sustainable Games. As part of the partnership, BMW will supply a range of Efficient Dynamic diesel cars, hybrids and electric vehicles, achieving average CO2 emissions below the LOCOG target of 120g/km, as well as bicycles and motorcycles.
These vehicles will play a key part in the smooth running of the Games, supporting Olympic and Paralympic events and transporting the athletes, officials and media. The BMW London 2012 Performance Team will also benefit by being provided with vehicles to support them in their preparation for the Games.
Alongside the BMW London 2012 Performance Team, BMW and MINI dealers will also support athletes across the UK by linking with athletes in their local areas.
To find out more about our performance team and to view the athletes performance moments visit www.bmw.co.uk/London2012.
The success of the BMW Group has always been built on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy. As a result of its efforts, the BMW Group has been ranked industry leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indexes for the last six years.