Harland, the 2004 Olympic bronze medallist, will officially take up her position on January 1, 2009, and will also sit on UIPM's ruling Executive Board, where she will have a place alongside another Briton, Martin Dawe, who is in charge of marketing.

 

She said: “I’m really looking forward to my time as chair.

 

"It was an honour to be elected by the other athletes.

 

"I now have the responsibility of representing the important voice of athletes and have no doubt that their opinions and ideas will be instrumental in shaping the future of our sport. 

 

"As a member of the International Federation’s Executive Board I also aim to ensure that the athletes remain a priority in all the decisions made at board level.”

 

The 30-year-old, who is based in Bath, was unfortunate to miss out on a place in this year's Games in Beijing because Britian were only allowed two representatives and she failed to earn one of the places.

 

But this position shows her passion for the sport has not diminished.

 

Peter Hart, the chief executive of Pentathlon GB, said: “Georgina’s commitment to the sport is evident in this election.

 

"She has worked extremely hard, earned the respect of the athletes and deserves this position.

 

"Pentathlon GB is extremely proud of her achievement and is confident that she will make an excellent contribution to the international development of modern pentathlon.”

 

Ben Calveley, UK Sport’s international policy consultant, said: “The combination of Georgina’s drive, athletic experience and respect amongst her peers, as well as the support of Pentathlon GB means that Georgina will be able to contribute a well-rounded perspective to both the Athletes Committee and the Executive Board.

 

"UK Sport is extremely pleased to see Britons taking an active role in the international development of sport.”