Pöyry Energy backs Olympic hopeful

Oil and Gas specialists Pöyry Energy (Aberdeen) Ltd are backing Jan’s bid to represent Great Britain at the Olympic Games. Jan Michael Kochalski, a member of the British Europa Cup squad, returned to North-east of Scotland from racing in Canada before Christmas to meet representatives from Pöyry who presented him with continuing funding for the 2009 season. The 22-year-old is training hard ahead of the World Championships which begin in Val D’Isere in the French Alps in February.

Jan, who lives in the Royal Deeside village of Torphins, was greeted by Pöyry Managing Director, Steve Fogg at the firm's city offices. Pöyry is a multinational energy firm that specialises in management consulting, hydropower, renewables, and oil and gas. The group employs 7,300 people in 42 countries.

Steve Fogg managing director of Pöyry said: “We have followed Jan’s progress closely and everyone here is really proud of what he has achieved so far. We wish him every success at the World Championships and will be cheering him on. Jan is a fantastic ambassador for young people in the north east and a great example of what youngsters can be achieve if they receive the right support.”

Steve added,"Pöyry's key asset is its people and we value personal development and that is why we have chosen to assist Jan. It takes a high level of commitment, but with the right backing and support he can achieve his goals."
Jan said: "I am extremely grateful to Pöyry. Their support takes a lot of the day-to-day pressure off me and means I am able to concentrate 100% on training, competition and improving my performances. "We receive a lot of backing from SnowsportGB [the body which represents competitive racing and snowboarding at an international level] when it comes to taking part in competition but it can be tough finding funding to help with travelling expenses and living costs" added Jan.