The success and dedication of young Christchurch sportsmen and women has been celebrated at the annual Christchurch and District Sports Council Sports Achievement Awards, held at East Dorset Indoor Bowls Club.
This year there were over 50 winners, with awards presented on the night by the Mayor of Christchurch, Cllr John Lofts, for success across a diverse range of sports such as sailing, gymnastics, judo, rowing and athletics. The categories included 18 bronze awards for county standard success, 11 silver awards for national standard success and 11 gold awards for international standard success.
The gold award winners were Joanne Arnell and Simon Mussell (sailing), Bethany Cooper and Alexander Peek (surf lifesaving), Joel Roberts (volleyball), David Williams (judo), Emilia-Mae Lynk (gymnastics), Sasha Ward (dance), Spencer Wilks (swimming), Charlie Roberts (water polo) and Matt Aldridge (rowing).
There were also two new categories this year with six Dedication to Sport awards and seven John Moss Sports Coaches awards. The coaching awards category was created in memory of the late John Moss, president of the Sports Council from 1997 to 2012.
On presenting the awards, the Mayor said: “It is great to see so many young people receive awards for their achievements and dedication shown in their chosen sports. It is also fitting to see volunteers and coaches getting the recognition they deserve for supporting these young people in reaching such high standards.”
