OLYMPIC legends Lord Sebastian Coe, Michael Johnson and Sir Steve Redgrave hit the track at Willesden Sports Centre on Monday.
The sportsmen were in Brent to launch a project run by Laureus Sport for Good Foundation and Track Academy - an organisation based at Willesden Sports Centre, which helps young people achieve their potential, regardless of their background.
Lord Coe, chairman of the London Organising Committee for the Olympic and Paralympic Games, American sprint star Johnson and five-times Olympic gold medal rower Sir Steve met youngsters.
One of the highlights of the day was an impromptu sprint on the Willesden track between the three and young people from the project.
Lord Coe said: "I am very keen to ensure that there is a significant legacy delivered for young people in London after the games.
"Projects like Track Academy can do just that. I'm delighted that Laureus are able to support it."
Connie Henry, who won a Commonwealth Games bronze medal in Kuala Lumpar in 1998, founded Track Academy in 2007.
She said: "Children growing up in Brent are under constant pressure to join gangs, run drugs and become involved in crime.
"Track Academy provides an alternative to this and I am so delighted that Laureus is going to support us. I can't thank Seb, Michael and Steve enough for coming along. It has made this an unforgettable day for the youngsters."
Johnson said: "When you talk to young people you realise what a difference sport can make to their hopes and dreams of a better future. I thought the quality of the coaching on offer was excellent and I am not surprised that the project is such a success."
Track Academy helps combat anti-social behaviour by using sport to interest young people. Youngsters can also be appointed a mentor to guide them.
Annie Tagoe, 17, who recently ran in the Singapore Youth Olympics, and trained at Track Academy, said: "Before I came to Willesden, my behaviour wasn't the best at school. I would get in trouble all the time and wouldn't take my education seriously. My behaviour has improved enormously by having a mentor at Track Academy. I am thankful and grateful."
To find out more about joining Track Academy, email info@londonsports trust.org.
