Newbury physiotherapist to treat athletes at Olympic Games

Phil Harris, who owns Newbury Physiotherapy and Pilates Clinic on Enborne Road, will be responsible for treating slalom canoeists and mountain bikers during the Olympics and Paralympic games at the purpose built hospital in the Olympic Village.
The 35-year-old, from Hermitage, said: “The Olympic Games is the pinnacle of any athlete's career and for me it feels the same way. To be involved in such an event and be able to help the world's best athletes achieve their dreams feels very special.
“It’s extremely exciting and will be extremely satisfying,” he added.
Mr Harris registered as a volunteer two years ago, having to prove his commitment to sport physiotherapy in a series of applications and interviews.
He was also required to volunteer for the test events so his ability in the field could be observed.
“The test events were great fun. My role was to provide a physiotherapy service for those athletes attending the events as and when they required it,” he said.
“I got to give my input into how effectively the medical service worked on a scaled down version in preparation for the Olympics.”
It wasn’t until April that he received confirmation for the Olympics.
This is not the first time Mr Harris will have provided a service to team GB. In 2002, he was a volunteer physiotherapist for the judo squad at the Commonwealth Games and in 2007 provided treatment for the Barbarians rugby squad.