Poole’s sports talent was celebrated at an annual awards ceremony held at the Magna Academy School, Poole, on Wednesday 23 September.
The awards, organised by Poole Sports Council in partnership with Borough of Poole’s Culture and Community Learning Service, celebrate the sporting achievements of individuals, teams and those who have dedicated long service to a sport.
East Dorset Open Water Swimming Club Channel Swim teams Chilli Nutters, Shore to Shore and Dorset Duo (Will, Jacqui, Chloe, Carol, Simon, Stuart, Judith, Chris, Tom, Mark S, Mark V and Ali) received commendations.
Emily and her Poole SC team mates were commended for their results at ASA Nationals and for outstanding achievement at the British Swimming Championships.
The night ended with the presentation of the Freddie Rowe Sports Cup to Mark Shakles in recognition of his achievements and dedicated services to the Royal Life Saving Society and East Dorset Open Water Swimming Club.
Richard Yates, Chairman of Poole Sports Council, said: “We called upon local sports organisations and the people of Poole to identify athletes that have gone above and beyond. The evening was a celebration of the success Poole has seen over the last year in many different sports.”
The event saw presentations for a wide variety of sports, including swimming, cycle speedway and wheelchair rugby.
The Mayor of Poole, Councillor Ann Stribley, who presented Certificates of Commendation, said: “It’s lovely to see so many talented people in Poole. Their hard working attitudes and success is such a compliment to Poole.”
Councillor Xena Dion, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Local Economy, Culture and Leisure, Borough of Poole, said: “It’s inspiring to see so many residents committing themselves to sport. There were nominations made for people of all ages, providing excellent role-models to everyone. We would like to express our grateful thanks to our sponsors.”
For the third year, the awards were sponsored by the Everyone Active Leisure Centres in Poole. Sean Gabriel, Centre Manager at Rossmore and Councillor for Canford Heath West, presented the Everyone Active Sports Trophies to Lindsay Hole and Longfleet Youth FC players committee who have gone the extra mile for their sports.
Nominations for next year’s Sports Awards will be invited in April 2016. For further information, please contact Recreation Development Team at Borough of Poole on 01202 261306.