UK Sport chair Dame Katherine Grainger has met with British Ski and Snowboard to assess progress ©UK Sport

UK Sport chair Dame Katherine Grainger has joined British Ski and Snowboard (BSS) at an event at the British Olympic Association to learn about recent developments within the organisation.

Dame Katherine also discussed British athletes' successes last season and expectations for the upcoming campaign, including Pyeongchang 2018.

A year ago BSS announced their vision to become a top five snowsports nation by 2030.

The event was an opportunity for guests, including key sponsors and partners, to hear from performance director Dan Hunt about progress towards the vision so far and plans for the future.

This included an update on BSS’ fundraising campaigns, named the British Snowsports Fund and BSS National Foundation.

Dame Katherine, who was appointed as UK Sport’s new chairperson in April, won rowing gold at London 2012 while she also claimed silver at Sydney 2000, Athens 2004, Beijing 2008 and Rio 2016.

“It has been fantastic to meet the team at BSS and hear both the science and passion behind the ambitions for the organisation, the teams and the athletes," she said.

“I was very impressed by the progress the national governing body has made in the last four years, and we are entering such an exciting time as the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Games are just over four months away.

"It sounds like our skiers and snowboarders are in great shape and ready to challenge for Olympic medals.”

Dame Katherine Grainger attended an event at the British Olympic Association ©BSS
Dame Katherine Grainger attended an event at the British Olympic Association ©BSS

Present at the event were partners of the British Snowsports Fund, which sees BSS work with the UK snowsports industry to ask recreational skiers and snowboarders for a small donation alongside a purchase.

Funds raised go towards supporting Britain's future Winter Olympians.

Last month saw the first grants made from the fund, following its launch in October last year.

Support is being given to four athletes to help them on their journey to Pyeongchang 2018, as well as to the BSS world class coaching programme.

“It was an honour to have Dame Katherine attend this event,” added Hunt.

“We have a great working relationship with UK Sport, who have recognised how much progress we are making and really believe in our athletes, so it was great for them to be involved in this event.

"It’s important to have the opportunity to update our partners about progress towards our 2030 vision, as they’re a vital part of the journey.”