Sports Awards Nominations reflect difficult year for sport

Plans are well advanced for the 16^th annual Sporting Achievement Awards taking place on 7^th January at Beau Sejour.

‘We’ve had some great nominations for this year’s awards despite the disruption caused by Covid throughout the year,’ said Graham Chester, Operations Director for the Sports Commission.

‘Sports have been affected in different ways throughout 2020 and it’s been great to see how they have adapted their seasons and continued to play and compete as far as possible, even holding virtual events throughout lockdown.

‘But because of the disruption caused by Covid, the Commissioners have taken the difficult decision not to award the main Guernsey Sports Commission Trophy this year,’ said Graham.

The Trophy is awarded for the outstanding performer of the year. Last year cyclist Sam Culverwell took home the prestigious award.

‘The Commissioners agreed that not all local sports men and women have had an equal opportunity to participate in their sports over the course of the year, and at a high enough standard. They felt that those that were able to compete had an advantage over those that couldn’t, and as the trophy is there to recognise equality, fair play, sportsmanship and competition at the highest level across all sports, they felt it would not be fair to award it this year.’

All other award categories have received multiple nominations, including the two disability sport trophies.

‘We have a great night of sporting celebrations planned, including inducting athlete Lee Merrien into the Sporting Hall of Fame.

‘Lee will be the 22^nd Guernsey sporting hero to be added to this illustrious group and we are looking forward to celebrating his career and sporting achievements on Awards Night,’ said Graham.

If you are interested in attending the Guernsey Sporting Achievement Awards at 6.30pm on Thursday 7^th January, then please contact info@guernseysports.com to book a ticket. Please book before 4^th January.