MUMBAI: SABMiller plc, has announced that it had partnered with the British fencing team as part of the FTSE - British Olympic Association initiative.
According to an official release, SABMiller will provide skills and resources in support of British Fencing as it develops as an autonomous organization. The objective is that the partnership is to be ongoing up to, and potentially beyond, the London Olympics in 2012.

Projects will vary over time but the initial focus will be on preparing a business plan to 2012. The aim will be to raise the profile of British Fencing, securing sponsorship and putting in place appropriate governance and service provision. SABMiller head of policy and planning Gail Lumsden at will lead on this project.

SABMiller corporate affairs director Sue Clark said, "SABMiller is a business which thrives on competition in all arenas. We are excited and honored to partner with British Fencing and to share in their forthcoming quest for Olympic success."

British Fencing president Keith Smith said, "British Fencing is delighted to be in a partnership with SABMiller. Access to the skills and resources of this FTSE 100 Company will help us to improve our image, management and performance, as we aim to grow as a sport and to deliver Olympic success in London in 2012. It is good to see this company stepping forward to help an enthusiastic and increasingly successful Olympic sport as we prepare for the excitement and challenges of London 2012. We already have an Under 17 World Champion and a Senior European Championships Silver medallist, and with increased support we hope to reach our full potential before a home crowd in London."