In an evening aimed at celebrating the performances of our Rio Olympians and Paralympics, the coaches, volunteers, officials and event organisers who underpin the sport have also been recognised by the Leigh Day British Triathlon Workforce Awards at tonight’s British Triathlon Awards Dinner on Saturday 12 November 2016.
The Leigh Day British Triathlon Volunteer of the Year award went to John Hagemeister. John has been involved in club volunteering for over 5 years and regularly offers his time to events around the country. Described by his peers as a role model within triathlon, this year John put his newfound paratriathlon handling skills to good use playing a key role in the ITU World Paratriathlon Event in Strathclyde Country Park. On collecting his award John said "I'm very happy to be recognised for the work I do. If anyone's thinking of volunteering I'd remind them it's much easier than you think. With a little commitment you get the best views on the whole course. It's well worth giving a bit of your time to make the sport happen."
It's well worth giving a bit of your time to make the sport happen
The Leigh Day British Triathlon Official of the Year award went to Tony Smalley. Tony has officiated at 17 events in 2016, ranging from local novice events right through to British Championships. His breadth of experience enables him to support and mentor local officials and is always on hand to help those new to the role. "I'm lucky in that I'm retired so I can travel to so may events to officiate but I've got to thank my wife for being so patient" said Tony.
Officials are often the first touch point at an event for newcomers to the sport and Tony is well known for his supportive approach to novice triathletes, especially within his local club network.
The Leigh Day British Triathlon Coach of the Year award was won by Billy Mitchell. Billy has been a level 3 triathlon coach for 12 years and has dedicated his time to developing young athletes within his club. He regularly puts in over 15 hours per week into coaching and running his club’s youth section, carefully planning and reflecting on every session and is always looking to improve the experience of the youngsters coming through.
Billy combines his coaching with a demanding job as head of Jog Scotland, working tirelessly to inspire more people to get involved in sport. He was nominated for the Leigh Day British Triathlon Coach of the Year for being a truly wonderful ambassador for our sport. On his award, Billy commented "The children I coach keep me so motivated after all these years, their enthusiasm and drive really makes it worthwhile. The variety triathlon brings is so great, there's always a new challenge and this helps to keep things fresh too."
The children I coach keep me so motivated after all these years, their enthusiasm and drive really makes it worthwhile.
In a night of celebration, British Triathlon also recognised Deva Divas Ladies Triathlon, an established event nowadays on the British triathlon calendar. The event prides itself in ensuring all novice females are comfor table, putting participants’ minds at ease so they can enjoy the triathlon experience.
The event also has an iconic location in Chester and is tailor-made for spectators. Being close to the city-centre means friends, family and members of the public are drawn to the action, giving the event an atmosphere to be proud of, not to mention providing an inspiring opportunity to encourage even more newcomers to the sport.
British Triathlon Awards Dinner is supported by Leigh Day and Eisberg.
For a full list of British Triathlon Award Winners, please visit here.
