An Olympic gold medalist is urging people to make a dash for their computers to help Barnet Central School Sports Partnership win £50,000 from Norwich Union.

Sprinter Darren Campbell, who won gold in Athens 2004, is backing the Sports Partnership's bid to get the cash. The group works with 26 schools in the borough, and hopes to use the money to enter the 2008 London Rock Challenge, a performing arts competition.

But before it can think about putting on a show with the prize money, the Barnet initiative must fight off other groups around the country and one person's vote could benefit 9,000 children.

Rachel Osman, partnership development manager, said: "Winning the big prizes would mean the difference between a small dance project and an amazing impact of dance within Barnet.

"All 26 of our schools would gain from the money as we would be able to set up projects in each school, which is 9,000 children in total.

"With this money, we could transform dance in the borough, providing schools with not only the expertise but the resources to develop one of the key areas of the PE curriculum."

Backing the bid, Mr Campbell said: "The people of Barnet can go online and vote for the scheme they think will make a difference. It's great for the community as there is so much talent out there."

Even if the group fails to get the top prize, £12,500 will go to silver position, with the scheme coming in third place getting £1,000.

To help Barnet Central School Sports Partnership win £50,000, log on to www.joinourteam.com and cast your vote.