GLL Sport Foundation celebrated at Kensington and Chelsea Sports Awards
GLL joined the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) Council Sports Awards at the Town Hall on Friday 15th November 2019 for a celebration of sporting success within the borough.
100 guests attended, joined by the Mayor and Mayoress of Kensington and Chelsea and other local Councillors.
On the night, the RBKC Sports Development Team recognised nine local sportspeople or organisations after a tough nomination and judging process. All nominations were submitted by local residents, clubs, and partners within the borough.
Alex Goode, England international and Saracens rugby player and winner of the 2019 European Player of the Year award, was the star guest and present each award before doing a quick question and answer session with each. He had this to say after the event: “It was an honour to be invited to present the RBKC Sports Awards. The commitment, selflessness and drive from so many volunteers to help and provide sports to so many people is incredible. I was blown away by how amazing the people involved are and the awesome achievements of so many.”
As a sponsor and supporting partner for the Awards Evening, GLL, presented by Foundations Manager James Jebb, provided an overview of the GLL Sport Foundation and the support available to 44 funded athletes in the borough this year.
The athletes who received a GSF financial award were invited to the stage to receive a certificate from Alex Goode and Tom Edwards, GLL Community Sports Manager. In addition, a GSF Athlete Achievement Award was awarded for a fantastic sporting achievement this season. The winners, as voted by the GLL management team in RBKC, were British number one ice-skating duo Lewis Gibson and Lilah Fear for their 6th place finish at the European Figure Skating Championships and coming 13th at World Figure Skating Championships.
Unfortunately, Lewis and Lilah couldn’t make the awards evening due to competing an at international event and so they were presented their awards at Kensington Leisure Centre. Upon receiving their trophies, Lilah commented, “It is such an hour and pleasure to receive this award. We are so grateful for GLL and for the council’s unwavering support and we hope to continue to do you proud!”.
Ullash Karia, Head of Leisure and Parks for RBKC. endorsed the first ever RBKC Sports Awards as a major success: “The evening was not only a celebration and dedication for the amazing work our nominees and winners do on a regular basis, day in and day out. But, it also highlights the major contribution and power sport makes in enriching the quality of lives of our residents and communities at a time when it is much needed. We have had some marvellous feedback already.”.
Young Sports Person’s Award: Edward Whittles – Chelsea and Westminster Swimming Club based at Kensington Leisure Centre
Disability Sports Person Award: Michael Lewington – Disability Sports Coach Community Club at Kensington Leisure Centre
Community Partner Award: Matthew Trytell – Everyone Active Tennis
Volunteer of the Year Award: Maisa Mendes – multi-sports session
Community Engagement Project Award: London Futures West - run by the Change Foundation
Power of Sport Award: Leanne Pero – The Movement Factory
Sports Organisation of the Year Award: Knightsbridge Fencing Club
Sports Personality Award: Molly Thompson Smith – Team GB Climber
Outstanding Contribution Award: Open Age