Member Article

Sir Chris Hoy set to open MACH 2016

One of Britain’s most successful track cyclists will officially open the largest manufacturing and engineering exhibition held in the UK on Monday (11th April).

Sir Chris Hoy MBE will add his backing to UK manufacturing and innovation when he gets MACH 2016 underway at the NEC in Birmingham at 10am.

The eleven-times world champion and six-times Olympic gold medallist has a keen interest in the sector, playing a major role in the development and prototyping of his own range of bikes.

He will mark the start of the five-day event, which provides manufacturers of all sizes and sectors with the opportunity to network and gain insights into breaking manufacturing technologies and supply chain development.

It is the first time since the downturn that the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA)-backed show has completely sold out, with 600 exhibitors showcasing their machines, products and services to more than 23,000 delegates.

MTA CEO James Selka, said: “We are delighted to welcome one of British sport’s true greats Sir Chris Hoy to open MACH 2016.

“Sir Chris and the British Cycling team are a prime example of the synergy that can be achieved when top athletes and engineers work together.

“Part of the success of the Great Britain Cycling Teams - both on the track and road - relates to specific knowledge and expertise in aerodynamics and structural engineering which brought new levels of innovation to the sport of cycling.”

Sir Chris Hoy concluded: “I’m delighted to open MACH 2016, as I have an interest in manufacturing processes and the way advanced engineering can aid sporting performance. I’m looking forward to being at MACH 2016 and seeing what the future of British manufacturing has in store in the coming years.”

MACH was established more than 100 years ago by the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA).

In addition to the army of exhibitors, visitors can expect an action-packed seminar programme featuring insight into training, Industry 4.0 and the latest developments with the Bloodhound SSC project.

There will also be a Learning and Development Zone that is expecting to host 3500 students, a vital resource for getting more young people to consider a career in UK manufacturing.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Russ Cockburn .