Hopefuls line up for Bedford Sports Awards

Our sporting heroes of 2011 are set to be saluted at the Bedford Sports Awards - and here are the nominees.

This year’s awards, once again organised by, have attracted a bumper entry across 11 categories.

They include everybody from teenagers to Senior Citizens who have given their all across a range of disciplines. Some have achieved great success - others are being put forward for their ouststanding community work.

The judges had a tough job selecting the winners - but the choices have been made and they will be revealed at a glittering awards night at Bedford Corn Exchange on Monday, December 12.

Here we reveal the nominees in each category.

Sports Club of the Year

sponsored by Bedford Borough Council Sports Development Unit

A-Pex Dance Organisation

A-Pex have taken first place at the UK Street Dance Championships twice and have represented the UK at the European Championships in Amsterdam, but are also very committed to making sure that they are easily accessible to people from all walks of life and all age categories. A-Pex go into various schools and offer the chance for young people to learn dance and are constantly improving the way they appeal to everyone and anyone. A community group that help encourage physical activity for all.

ATSK Bedford Karate Club

ATSK Bedford Club has a range of programmes offered to various ages and abilities. The Club caters for complete beginners up to highly advanced students ranging from 4 to 70 years olds. ATSK Bedford Club has continued to adapt to the changing economic environment and continued to offer Traditional Shotokan Karate and the benefits of the traditional martial arts to all people that wish to try it out and those that continue.

Bedford and County Athletics Club

The Club offers a full range of coaching and competition for all Track and Field disciplines, as well as Road Running and Cross Country. Coaching is offered from the age of 7 with regular competitions which are available from the age of 11 to 70 plus. Abilities range from novice to full international level. Bedford and County Athletics Club has a total of 600 members but still welcome newcomers and have a very clear pathway of progression for all levels ofparticipants.

Bedford Hockey Club

Bedford Hockey Club provides the opportunity to participate in a competitive and social environment for all ages and abilities. The club has teams playing in competitions ranging from the under 9’s to the over 60’s. The thriving junior section has grown again with their qualified coaches providing an excellent introduction to Hockey. The Senior side of the club runs 11 teams, participating across all standards in the region in competitive league and cup competitions.

Bedford Ladies Football Club

Bedford Ladies Football Club don’t turn away anyone! If you are just beginning, want to get back into football or play at high level, they have a place for you. Their youngest player is 6 and oldest is 42. The club has worked with Schools to help develop local talent. They have also been a keen supporter of the ‘Kick it out’ campaign addressing racism in football over the last decade. Bedford Ladies FC has had players go to Arsenal and Chelsea, and have been recognised as a beacon of excellence by the FA.

Bedfordshire DanceSport Club

The Bedfordshire DanceSport Club offers a complete range of training for all ages. Training ranges from group classes to personal training here in Bedford. Regular training sessions take place with the number 5 English Professional Ballroom dancer Accursio Romeo. The club was the first Dance Club to gain the Sport England Clubmark accreditation and has recently introduced modular Squad training to support its Squad members in their competitive activities.

Chand Institute of Taekwon-Do

The Institute of Taekwon-Do offers a wide range of activities and programmes within the Bedford Borough. There are classes for young people aged from 4 to 18 and for adults as well. They operate from 8 sites in total, with 5 instructors working in curriculum times and after school hours. There is no activity that offers such a diverse list of benefits to all ages and abilities. The Institute of Taekwon-Do have approximately 500 students per week.

Riverside Tennis Club

From 3-90 years old, fun Mini Tennis sessions to Elite Performance for Juniors and Adults Riverside Tennis Club caters for all ages and abilities for its members and non members. Riverside Tennis Club has an extensive outreach and internal coaching programme. They run holiday camps for all ages to ensure that new players have the chance to try out the sport and offer free trial sessions all year round.

Viking Kayak Club

Viking has a very broad range of activities available to all ages and capabilities. They have developed a strong paddler development pathway, starting with the Kids Club which run each Spring and gives children, from the age of 8, basic to intermediate paddling skills in a fun, safe environment. This year is the club’s 50th Anniversary and they have decided to celebrate in style by introducing their first annual Polo tournament.

Woodside Judo Club and Bedford Grappling Academy

Woodside Judo Club and Bedford Grappling Academy welcomes students of all ages and abilities. The youngest member is currently 4 and oldest is 58. Abilities range from complete beginners up to 4th Dan Black Belt. All beginners start by learning how to land correctly and then join the main lesson. There are different classes for different ages and ability levels and the club has 4 fully qualified coaches across 2 venues to enable them to do this.

Rising Star Award

Sponsored by Mrs M Stewardson

Josh Bassett – Rugby

Josh has recently moved from playing rugby at U15 level with Ampthill to being Lead Try Scorer for the Bedford Blues Academy. In February 2011 Josh signed a development contract after impressing Director of Rugby Mike Rayer. This year, with the team, Josh has won the National Colts Cup 2010-11. Josh has two main goals, to complete his BSc in Sport and Exercise Science at the University of Bedfordshire and to play rugby at the highest level.

George Darlow – Cricket and Football

At 14 George became a first team regular for Southill Park in the top tier of League Cricket in Bedfordshire and represented the County and was the third highest wicket taker in the Hunts County League following on from winning the award in 2010. George also won the Club Saturday and Sunday Bowling Award. In Football, George is first choice goalkeeper for the County FA and the County Schools Under 16 representative Team.

Stefan Fforde-Butler and Selena Quambusch – Dancing

Since the formation of this partnership in 2010 Stefan and Selena have grown both in stature and performance. They have qualified to dance in all competitions above Novice and are regular finalists in all major competitions around the Country in their category. Stefan and Selena reached the finals of the Bedford DanceSports Masters in both Ballroom and Latin American and were runners up in Latin American.

Finton McCann – Snooker and Pool

Finton has qualified to play in the County Pool Team in 2011 and is close to gaining trials to play for England through his county record. Despite only entering the team in late 2010 Finton has already established himself as a regular in the team and practices all the hours he can. Finton has taken his Snooker and Pool training to a new level and has already qualified to play in the National Under 16 Grand Prix, at which the best 28 players in the country are present.

Ruaidhri Medhen – Canoe Polo and Water Polo

Ruaidhri is the captain of Viking Kayak Club Youth Canoe Polo Team and also plays on the Senior Team in the National League. Ruaidhri has only been playing (and kayaking) for less than 2 years. The Youth squad and senior squad currently sit near the top of their league. Ruaidhri also has represented his school and Ireland at Water Polo.

Scott Neave – Table Tennis

Scott is the Under 13’s Bedfordshire Schools Champion and was selected this year for the Regional Squad. He was an English School’s finalist and was promoted to Division 3 of the Bedford and District Table Tennis (Adult) League. Scott has moved up to the 7th highest ranked player in the Adult League and was selected to train at one of the East of England’s Development Centres.

Anisha Thind – Cricket

Anisha is captain of the School Girls Cricket Team that won the District Championship. Anisha attended the under 15’s County Girls Cricket trials and played so well she was selected for the full Women’s County Team, playing for Bedfordshire at the age of 15. Anisha has progressed from playing cricket in PE lessons and then forming the school team, to representing Bedford at county level all in 18 months.

Sporting School of the Year

Sponsored by The Bedford Charity

Beauchamp School

Beauchamp School are very proud to offer an extensive variety of sporting opportunities to their pupils, but also welcome many community groups to use their facilities. Beauchamp School’s recent OFSTED inspector noted. ‘the specialist sports provision is outstanding. Outcomes are high and the school achieves great success in this area. Five hundred of the pupils attend at least one of the wide range of out-of-school sports activities, an exceptional level of attendance.’

Bedford Academy

Bedford Academy provide a wide range of activities to all genders and year groups. They particularly excel at alternative sports and engage as many students as possible giving them local exit routes, sports include, American Football, Dodgeball, Gaelic Football and Baseball. Bedford Academy offer 20 different sports both in curriculum and after school. Their staff try to give as large a choice as possible especially in enrichment which they feel is the key to a healthy and active lifestyles.

Biddenham International School and Sports College

Biddenham Sports College ensure all students are given the opportunity to aspire to a performance level and/or discover an enthusiasm to participate in physical activity beyond school life. Students are able to take part in National Sports Week in both traditional and less traditional activities. A Leadership Academy was set up in 2010 to develop coaching and leadership qualifications and has been supporting both school and Borough events as young leaders.

Margaret Beaufort Middle School

Margaret Beaufort Middle School run a full fixture list 4 nights a week with extra curricular activities on 5 lunchtimes with a minimum of 12 traditional team sports and individual sports catering for every child. Introduction of some Paralympics sports have provided extra opportunities for all pupil at the School. The School prides itself in working with the local community and have a multi use games area which is available to local football clubs.

Sharnbrook Upper School

Sharnbrook offer a wide range of activities within the curriculum as well as in their extra-curricular provision and aim to balance examination subjects with the sports and physical activity out of school hours programme provision. The PE department have fought to keep the School Sport Partnership which helps to offer opportunities outside performing, especially focusing on leadership. Sharnbrook is very fortunate to have exceptionally good facilities which are open to the community.

St Gregory’s Middle School

St Gregory’s Middle School offer a wide range of activities Traditional and Alternative to their students, such activities include, Hockey, Rugby, Gymnastics, Netball, Badminton, Table Tennis, American Football, Kick Boxing and Boxing. St Gregory’s arrange a large fixtures programmes for A and B teams and also offer two sports days a year, Winter (Team Games and Cross Country) and Summer (Traditional Athletics).

Westfield Middle School

The range of activities available to pupils at Westfield is still growing and includes many sports such as; Extreme Golf, Handball, Goalball, American Football, Boot Camp, Table Tennis and much more. Invites are sent to pupils to encourage high participation and nurture groups run for all abilities. Westfield Middle School’s facilities are an integral part of the Queens Park Community and are used by a number of local community sports clubs and organisations.

Junior Sports Personality of the Year

Sponsored by The Rotary Club of Bedford Park

Daniel Barton – Skiing

Daniel achieved the Gold medal for Slalom in the Inter School Ski Championships in Les Houches, France, won the Bronze medal in the Scottish Championships in Courcheve, France, the Bronze medal in Slalom in the British Schoolboys International Races in Merigen, Switzerland and multiple Indoor Summer Ski Competitions. Daniel strives for further success in Skiing and has been selected for the English Schools Ski Squad for 2012.

Katie Batchelor – Wakeboarding

In September Katie was selected for the European & Africa IWWF Cable Wakeboard Championships in Belgrade, Serbia. This was her first international cable competition and she managed to win a bronze medal, coming 3rd in the girls category. 2011 has been her most successful and enjoyable wakeboarding season so far. She is currently the British Girl Champion for Boat Wakeboarding and Cable Wakeboarding and is in both the British Cable Wakeboard Team and British Boat Wakeboard Team.

Dominic Chandler – Kneeboarding

Dominic won the National Mastercraft Kneeboard Championships at Humber Bridge near Hull on the weekend of the 10th and 11th September where he dominated the Junior II division. Dominic also won the Rookie title in 2010. Weather and water conditions on the day were appalling due to high winds and Dominic was the least experienced of the competitors however won the slalom title.

Josh Conroy – High Jump and Rugby

Josh established himself as one of the top performers in his age group in 2011. Josh came 1st in the South of England Championships and 2nd in the English Schools Championships; both were in the Under 15’s High Jump. Josh also won trophies for the Best Performance and Most Improved Athlete at U15 level at the recent Club Track and Field presentations. On top of this Josh also plays rugby for Bedford Blues and represents his school in a number of other sports.

Josh Cox – Athletics

Josh has finished 4th in the final 100 metres at the England Athletics U17 Championships and is the fastest sprinter in the Bedford and County Athletics Club, including Senior Mens. Josh’s best time for 100 metres is 10.8 seconds and is equal second fastest in his age group. Josh aims to establish himself in the top ten in his age group and to at least make the finals of the English Schools Senior Boys Competition.

Jake Devereux – Pole Vault

Jake has made exceptional progress in Pole Vault since commencing athletics in 2009, he is now the South of England Champion and he came 2nd in the Home Counties School Internationals. Jake also came 2nd in the English Schools Athletics Championships, achieving his personal best of 4.30 metres. Jake won the trophy for the Best Performance by an U17 Athlete at the recent club Track and Field Award Ceremony.

Raeshan Downer – Handball

Raeshan has been selected for the U18 National Handball Longlist Squad in October 2011 and will train at the European training camp in Ochtrup, Germany with the hope of going on to play for England as part of the final Squad in the European Tournament in Austria in March 2012. Raeshan has real potential to be part of the final squad in Austria next Spring and represent his country.

Ollie Gilbert – Canoe Slalom

Ollie started competitive Canoe Slalom Paddling in 2007 and this season became British Youth Champion in the U13 age group and qualified for Canoe England’s Youth Development Squad. Ollie finished overall in Men’s Division One with only two U14 paddlers currently ranked higher in the UK. Ollie is expected to be promoted again into the Men’s Premier Divition in the New Year.

Ben Jelf – Powerboat Racing

Ben has won many competitions over the last 12 months, GT15 World Champion, GT15 European Champion, Junior JT250 National Sprint Champion, World GT15 Speed Record Holder and British S250 Speed Record Holder, to name a few. At the age of 11 years old Ben is already an inspiration to all young Powerboat Racers and has the potential to stay at the top throughout his career.

Claudia Johnson – Tennis, Hockey and Rounders

Tennis – County No.1 at U12 and top 50 nationally. Claudia won the County finals in the Road to Wimbledon National Competition and competed in the week long tournament there in August. Claudia is currently U14 No.2. Hockey, Claudia has been selected for the U15’s County Team. Rounders, Claudia has been selected to represent England at U14 Rounders.

Daniel McGowan – Thai Boxing

Daniel has progressed from 2 times English champion and Southern area champion last year to winning a World Junior title and the Celtic Championship British title this year. Daniel has also taken a step up to Adult Pro rules in two of his fights this year and is now fighting 5 x 3 minute rounds and fighting Full Thai rules in 2 bouts. Daniel has been asked to help pass on his knowledge and skills to youngsters and help them develop into fighters.

Joseph Mullan - Sailing

Joseph has had a very busy year being the 4.2 National Series Winner, 19th at Topper World’s Championships in Dublin, he sailed against all ages and came 1st again the under 14s, 2nd Eastern Region Traveller series and Winner of the Eastern Region Championship Shield. Joseph is one of only two 13 year boys in the Junior National Squad, all the rest are much older. This year he hopes to improve on his National and International results.

Edward Munno – Rowing

Ed is a passionate and enthusiastic sportsman and a great role model for the many young rowers he mentors. Ed has achieved a Silver medal for GB (junior men’s eight) at the Junior World Rowing Championships at Eton Dorney. He won a Gold medal for GB (coxless four) at the Munich International Regatta and won a Silver medal in the National Schools Regatta for the coxed four whilst representing Bedford Modern School.

Amy Nash – Dressage

Amy has moved from novice level dressage to riding at Junior FEI level in under two years and has been placed into the Eastern British Dressage ‘A’ squad Elite for 2011 and 2012. Amy came 2nd in the British Dressage Under 21s Championships and 2nd Medium in the British Dressage Home International representing England. Amy works hard, trains hard and is totally committed to her goal of getting a place on team GB.

Holly Peace – Gymnastics

Holly has won gold medals at Level 5 and 4 of the women’s artistic discipline of gymnastics which qualified her for the Eastern Regional Out of Age Championships where she was placed in the top 6. In Tumbling, Holly has won Gold and Silver medals at County and Regional competitions and her target is to reach the National Tumbling Finals in 2012.

Josh Riddaway – Pool

Josh was crowned the Under 16’s National Grand Prix Champion 2011 – his first national singles championship. Josh came to one frame off qualifying to play for England in January 2011 and this year has stormed to second in the region rankings which has cemented his England trials for January 2012. Josh has represented his local pool league at the national Championships twice this year and had one of the best records.

Young Volunteer of the Year

Shevaun Davis and Jonathan Powell - Sailing

Shevaun and Jonathan have job shared the role of Junior representative on the Priory Sailing Club Committee for the past two years and are only relinquishing this post due to age restrictions. Shevaun and Jonathan have had the responsibility of representing the views and requirements of the club’s Junior members and have worked together to fulfil this role.

Andy Kettlewell – Canoe Slalom

Andy is 17 and competes in two disciplines of Canoe Slalom, Solo Kayak and Solo Canoe, which are both Olympic events. Andy has always helped out at Viking and for the last two years he has been our Youth Leader, which is a full committee position and requiring many hours of meetings. In 2010 Andy became Viking Kayak Club’s Slalom representative, helping to run the Cardington Slalom Events.

Shannon McGrorey – Netball and Lifesaving

Shannon has been a member of Sharnbrook Junior Netball Club since she was 10 years olds, Shannon is now involved in the coaching and administration of the club. Shannon is an All England Netball Association Level 1 Coach and although only recently passed her beginners umpire course she is taking her Level C course in December. Shannon is also an assistant teacher at the Bedford Lifesaving club where she teaches rookies (U12’s) water survival skills.

Sports Team of the Year

Sponsored by University of Bedfordshire

AFC Kempston Rovers 1st Team – Football

AFC Kempston Rovers 1st Team are UCL League Division One winners, this is in Step 6 of the non-league football pyramid. It’s the first time that the team has won this league since 1985. They are also winners of the Hinchingbrooke Cup, this is the oldest running competition in the area with all of the major non-league clubs invited and has not been won by AFC Kempston Rovers in 83 years.

Bedford Ladies FC U13 – Football

The Bedford Ladies Under 13 Squad had a very successful year, winning the Chiltern Junior League without losing a game, they completed their double by winning the League Cup as well. Whilst on tour they collected the Easter Festival of Football Tournament in Skegness, with forward Cyeanne Eaton winning player of the tournament. They were subsequently invited to the Young Champions competition where they competed mainly against teams associated to pro clubs, they made the final drawing with Chelsea 4-4.

Bedfordshire Blue Raiders – American Football

The Blue Raiders American Football Team cater for players of all ages and run both a youth and senior section. The Club offer ‘Come and Try’ sessions for new players or those with experience. The Bedfordshire Blue Raiders play in a regional league and face clubs from Peterborough, MK, Watford, Norwich and Kent. The Club are working hard to attract new players to the sport and to raise the profile of the club.

Biddenham Goldstars Cheerleaders – Cheerleading

The Squad have been very successful in 2011 winning the Future Cheer Southern Region Competition at Crystal Palace and achieving second place Pom Dance at the UKCA Schools National Competition in Manchester. They also achieved Best Cheer Competition Senior Runner Up 2011 and Best Cheer Competition Best Choreography 2011. The Squad have been training hard to learn new stunts so they can enter more compeitions and categories.

Bobby Riddaway and Josh Riddaway – Pool

Both Bobby and Josh (as Father and Son) won the Beds Independent World Rules Pool Doubles in 2010 (run in Bedford Borough playing for the Daley X Pool Team). Josh (15) won the National Under 16 Grand Prix Final (a first national title for a Bedfordshire Pool Player). Bobby took the Bedfordshire Youth Pool Team to a regional title. Both Bobby and Josh have significantly raised the profile of Bedford Borough in the Pool world during 2011.

Liam Ross and Charlotte Gregory – Gymnatics

Liam and Charlotte performed exceptionally well during the year and are currently County and Regional Champions. Liam and Charlotte also performed in the Triangular Championships between the South, London and the East where they won the Gold medal. Their greatest achievement in 2011 was to become National Champions at International One. Liam and Charlotte will perform on 11th December at the British Open Championships and from here will look at increasing their difficulty level for competitions in 2012.

Star Club Men’s Squad – Rowing

Star Club’s Men’s Squad have won many Heads and Regatta Races all over the country during the course of the 2011 rowing season. Noticeable results include: Winners of the Jackson Trophy at the Head of the River Race in London, Winners of Elite Fours at the Metropolitan Regatta, Finalists in the Thames Challenge Cup at Henley Royal Regatta and 2 Silver medals at the National Championships in Open Eight and Open Sculls.

U18 Sharnbrook Upper School Netball Team – Netball

District league champions for the 5th year running, County Champions for the 4th year running including this season, East Region Runners Up 2010/11 and were the highest placed state school in the National Finals Competitions being placed 4th. Due to the Team’s continued success the school have invested in a netball academy programme for the sixth form age group to help develop their potential in the game.

Viking Kayak Club Canoe Polo Team – Canoe Polo

Viking Kayak Club Canoe Polo Team have had a great year so far in terms of playing and also developing additional squads and teams. Though their coaching they have a new youth team who are joint top of the league and a ladies team who are second. Viking Kayak Canoe Polo Team have placed third in Ireland and 9th in London tournaments.

Sports Administrator or Club Person of the Year

Sponsored by The Bedford Leisure Card

Geoffrey and Margaret Appleton – Multi Sports

Both Geoffrey and Margaret have given loyal service to their respective organisations, showing enthusiasm and dedication throughout many years, ensuring that hundreds of people have been able to participate or follow their chosen sport. Geoffrey and Margaret are very much a team working together and are associated with Bedford and County Cricket League, Great Barford Cricket Club, Bedford Rugby Followers Association, Bedford Angling Club and Bedford River Users Group.

Robert Bates – Kayaking

Rob is totally committed to his sport as a full time volunteer. Rob joined the club in 2004 as a non-paddler and after one year became Chairman. The following year Rob became a coach then a white water coach and finally Regional Chairman. Rob works with the environment agency to improve conditions for all paddlers in the region, this is in addition to running the club and helping/coaching at all events.

Simon Collier – Table Tennis

Simon has been involved for a number of years and attends every Sunday evening from 4-9pm. Simon took over the running of Elstow Table Tennis Club and since taking over membership is full for the club and they now have 6 teams in the Bedford and District Table Tennis League. Simon has worked tirelessly to provide the best environment for Table Tennis in the area and is always trying things to improve the club and players alike.

Kate Costin – Hockey

Kate not only Captains the Ladies First Team but she has prepared motivational DVD’s for the team, she produces a weekly match day programme, and recently took her Level 2 Coaching Award so she could help run the club coaching sessions. Kate has been part of the team that instigated the new Junior Academy, also applying for a grant for Sport England to help fund this programme. Kate has gained over £5000 in sponsorship money for the Ladies Section of Bedford Hockey Club.

Katarina Darcy – Running

Kat wanted athletics to be for everyone and set up the Bedford Park Run. It is a free event with prizes, awards and competitions and no pressure for all ages and all abilities. In just two years Bedford Park Run is the most popular weekly athletics event in Bedford with over 800 people now registered. Kat is the volunteer organiser, trainer, events director, race reporter, first aider, responsible for health and safety, website manager and much more, all of which she does not get paid for and volunteers her time on top of a full time job.

Tony Goodman – Rugby and Rowing

Tony’s commitment to both Bedford Rugby Club and Bedford Rowing Club has been very significant. Tony has been a long time supporter and held the role as Club President at the Bedford Blues Rugby Club and Bedford Rowing Club for over 30 years. He excelled in getting businesses involved and kept both clubs going through very difficult times. Tony has made an invaluable input to sport within Bedford for a number of years only stopping due to illness.

Trevor Hughes – Cycling

Trevor has worked tirelessly for the good of cycling both locally and internationally for the past 50 years. Trevor has had a lifetime in cycling, starting at a junior in the local club, then active in club runs, time trials and road races and then being involved with the British Cycling and British Cycling Federation. Trevor has held many job roles like Olympic Trial Road Race Chief Judge and 8 times Tour of Britain Chief Judge.

Mohammed Kabir – Soccer

Mohammed has committed endless hours to Soccer League Uk’s small sided football league throughout Bedfordshire. Mohammed founded the company and now represents over 3000 people who are involved in the league. Mohammed works 7 days a week and inputs his own personal money to boost the experience for all participants. Soccer League UK has grown to have several locations in Bedfordshire that is accredited to Mohammed and his effort and commitment over the years.

Tony Law – American Football

In the four years that Bedfordshire Blue Raiders have been running Tony has simultaneously filled in as Chairman, General Manager, Gameday Manager, Treasurer and Equipment Manager roles, as well as designing and maintaining the club website (these roles have now been filled by a committee of 8 people). Bedfordshire Blue Raiders would not exist if not for the work completed by Tony.

Glen Paxton – Cricket

Glen has played a major role in each year of the club’s existence either as an administrator, umpire or player. Glen’s dedication to the team was a driving force behind the Beds and District 2nd division league title. Glen takes care of everything behind the scenes so that they just need to remember to turn up and play! Glen is well known throughout the leagues for his dedication, his impartial umpiring and his deadly slow bowling from his playing days.

Rob Price – Community Centre

Rob is totally committed to this project and changing the redundant Church Hall of St Cuthberts into a thriving Community Centre. Rob has overcome many difficulties while developing the Church Hall into a Community Centre, such as trying to find money, battling with ‘red tape’ getting repairs done… the list is endless.

Rhian Welch – Pool

Rhian is a recent mother yet still finds time to work hard on the Bedford Independent Pool League, be Captain for the County Women’s Team, Captain an Interleague Team and Captain a Team in the Bedford League. Rhian also arranges trophies for all the leagues that she plays and works in. Rhian has raised the profile of Pool in Bedford and established one of the most successful Pool Leagues in the town.

Bernard Wells – Athletics

Despite being over 80 years old Bernard has still been fully committed to playing several roles within Bedford and County Athletics Club. Over three decades Bernard has undertaken a wide range of roles and on the recent loss of a member of the club Bernard stepped in to take on additional responsibility to ensure that the club has been able to meet it’s commitments in terms of staging home matches.

Charlie Wilson – Swimming

Charlie set up the Modernians Swimming Club in 1965 to provide local children with swimming lessons and to assist those swimmers with potential to achieve the aims of National and International representation. Charlie also coached Brian Brinkley, a Bedford Olympian, which entails a very high level of coaching. Charlie has been involved in sport coaching and administration for well over 50 years.

Sports Coach of the Year

Sponsored by Bedford College

Allen Adamson – Athletics

Allen has been an outstanding sprint coach for more than three decades. He has coached a number of individuals to international level including the winning of European Gold and Silver medals at Junior level. Allen coaches a wide range of abilities and ages, most of whom make significant progress year on year. This year two of his veteran athletes won medals at the European Masters Games.

Mark Anstee – Cycling

Mark has been totally committed to the development of young riders from the first day of Go-Ride. Mark has taken participants, some as young as 6 years old, and installing self confidence in them, developed their characters, worked as a group and showed them the fun to have by being fit and active.

John Joe Biggs – Ju Jitsu

Joe has worked continuously to turn St Cuthberts Church Hall into a Community Centre with 6 groups doing Martial Arts, Dance and Yoga. Joe already has a 8th Dan Belt in Ju Jitsu and teaches a range of activities including Martial Arts, Ju Jitsu and Eskrima. Most of Joe’s time is taken up by improving the Community Centre.

Dave and Jackie Cheshire – Athletics

Both Dave and Jackie coach young athletes three times a week on the Beagles and Passport Schemes at Bedford and County Athletics Club plus a number of other individual programmes they work on separately. Dave and Jackie have revamped and revitalised the coaching schemes for new young members and their success is shown by the numbers who attend on a regular basis.

Carl Denham – Gymnastics

In September 2010 Carl took over the elite squad training and in 2011 produced 8 Regional Champions and had all 8 gymnastics represented at National Finals. This resulted in two 4th place positions and Liam and Charlotte becoming National Champions. Carl’s technical knowledge and his supporting skills has enabled Liam and Charlotte to produce the first double back somersault in a regional competition and dramatically improve the overall standard of the squad.

Robbie Dolan – Rugby League

Robbie started the first ever Bedford Tigers Junior Team (U16) and took them from never playing Rugby League before to their first ever game. Robbie went from enthusiastic volunteer to fully qualified Level 2 Rugby League coach. Robbie’s commitment was so great that he ran an ultra-marathon (33 miles) to raise money for the team and other junior rugby activities.

Naim Lounais (Rio) – Dancing

Rio has helped students progress in street and various other styles of dance. His students are coached from beginners to intermediates and learn quickly and effectively though his methods, the elite can join his 3 crews, Dynamix, N-ergy and A-Pex. Commitment, discipline, dedication and a passion for dance shows throughout his hard work. Rio constantly strives to push his students to bring out their full potential.

Pete Mulkerrins and Andy Smith – Rowing

Pete and Andy are coaches of the Senior Men’s Squad at Star Club, coaching a variety of oarsman. They have both experienced an exceptional season with the men coaching the club’s eight to winning the prestigious Jackson Trophy at the Head of the River Race and finishing runners up to an Australian squad crew in the Thames Challenge Cup at Henley Royal Regatta. Nine of Pete and Andy’s athletes then went on to win Silver at the National Championships.

Dave Randall – Football

Dave is the head coach of the successful and well established Football Academy at Bedford College and has effectively coached the senior team of AFC Kempston Rovers to winning the League and Cup. Dave has given 100% commitment to his coaching roles over the year, alongside his full-time job as a Sports Teacher at Bedford College. The evidence of Dave’s progress and improvement lies in the development of Academy players progressing into a higher level football.

Davina Scholefield (nee Whitworth) – Divers

Over the last 20 years, Davina’s coaching has produced some Regional, National, International, Commonwealth and Olympic level divers. On top of coaching complete beginners, intermediate and novice level divers Davina currently coaches two World Masters Divers. Davina is always looking for ways to improve her techniques, as well as developing the divers and other coaches skills with incredible persistence and patience.

Disabled Sports Award

Sponsored by Bedford Borough Council Sports Development Unit

Hugo Borralho – Archery and Horse Riding

Hugo is a member of The Ouse Valley Archers who was seriously injured in a violent incident a few years ago. Hugo’s participation in archery has helped him recover from both the physical and mental trauma of that incident and he now participates in both club level and open competitions. As well as Archery Hugo volunteers once a week at Elisabeth Curtis Riding School.

Elisabeth Curtis Centre (Riding for the Disabled) – Horse Riding

The Centre offers riding therapy sessions to any disabled person aged five and above who would benefit from them. Riding has long been known to have many beneficial effects, both physical and mental. It boosts confidence and social skills and is great exercise. The therapy sessions are tailored to each individual’s needs. Elisabeth Curtis Centre’s aim is to offer as many people with disabilities the chance to benefit from Riding Therapy in a safe, comfortable environment.

Jack Gambrill – Athletics

Jack is an eighteen year old dwarf who competes in both disabled and open competition in 100m, 200m, Javelin and Shot. Jack won Gold in the 100m and Silver in Javelin at the 2009 World Dwarf Championships and has improved his personal best performances in these events. Jack is an inspiration to his training group. He is a qualified coach and assists with coaching the Beagles at Bedford and County Athletics Club.

Eric Hartwell and Jean Gray – Bowling

Eric (over 80) and Jean (over 60) have been working at Bedford Borough Bowling Club for many years and co-ordinate the fortnightly sessions for partially sighted and blind bowlers of all ages. The thriving club is a real opportunity for people with sight disabilities to actively participate in sport. The team of Eric and Jean are a great example of how committed volunteers can provide real support and encouragement to others.

Rosemary Hollingworth - Cycling

Rosie was selected 2 years ago to represent Great Britain at the Special Olympic World Games in Athens 2011. Rosie continues her cycle training including a mini National event in Manchester, where she has won a Sliver and Bronze. In Athens she was the first GB athlete to medal achieving Bronze in the 5k road race. Rosie then won a sliver in the 5k time trial and 4th in the 10k road race. Rosie has been an example of what you can achieve if you try and if you really want something.

Luke Michael Middleditch – Swimming

Luke won a 250m Breaststroke Gold medal in the Special Olympics of Great Britain in June 2011. Luke is very committed to his swimming lessons and swims 5 times a week, he increased the days he does swimming this year which certainly contributed to his success at the Special Olympics. Luke loves swimming and considering his potential and commitment he has got a good chance of winning more medals next year in the Special Olympics.

Julie Rogers – Sitting Vollyball

Julie had her right leg amputated at the age of 2 but has excelled in sport by being the youngest member of the Paralypmic Great Britain Team. Julie has continued to train in the sports of Sitting Vollyball and plays for Loughborough and Essex as well as being in the GB Team Development Squad. Julie has competed against teams from the UK as well as Canada and the Netherlands. Julie is now 13 years old and has continued to improve in her technical ability, strength and conditioning programme.

Adult Sports Personality of the Year

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Rachel Armstrong – Triathlon

Rachel has broken 3 course records in the Bedfordshire Road Cycling Club and also competed in the World Triathlon Championships in Beijing, China finishing 13th in her age group. Rachel has steadily risen through the club competitions to the level of competing in 3 World Championships for Triathlons. Rachel has always given 100% commitment to her sporting activities and is aiming to concentrate on her cycling next year.

Iva Barr – Running

Iva is a familiar face on the streets of Bedford! She can be seen in all weathers and times of the day completing her days training. At the age of 83 she took part this year’s “Forces March” – an event of 5 marathons in 5 days. She also took part in the 18 mile Grizzly run and was the oldest lady participating. Iva has completed at least six “Great North Runs” Having taking up running in her fifties Iva continues to run Marathons in her eighties.

Tom Church – Pool

Tom has qualified to play for the England Youth Pool Team and Captained the County Youth Pool Team to the Regional Title. Tom won the singles ranking in the region and was crowned County Youth Grand Prix Champion while also dominating in the Bedford Independent Pool League. Tom has been a shining example to players in Bedford and the County and often practices against players not as experienced as him so they can improve their game.

Ranjit Dheer – Thai Boxing

Ranjit won the World Bantam Weight Title on 26th June at the Element Club in Bedford. Even though Ranjit has hung up his gloves after his win, Ranjit has inspired many young people in Thai Boxing and continues to help others in their development in Thai Boxing. Ranjit is also a positive leader within the community.

Mark Draper – Cross Country

Mark has enjoyed an outstanding year despite suffering from injury. Mark represented Great Britain in the European Cross Country Championships and ranked 5th in both the 5000 metres and 3000 metres Steeplechase. Mark also came 3rd in the UK Championships in the 3000 metres Steeplechase. He has also won best Seniors Performance and the Most improved Senior Performance at the County AC Track and Field Awards.

Silvia Earl – Fencing

Silvia has won the Gold medal in Category 3 Sabre in the Veterans European Fencing Championships which took place in Henin-Beaumont in France in June and 5th in the Veterans World Championships Sabre in Croatia in October. Silvia came 3rd in the Epee in the Bexley Open and 3rd in the Sabre at the Norfolk Open. Silvia has also fenced for the winning England team in the 4 Nations Tournament in Wrexham.

Alex Edwards – Dragonboat Racing

As member of Team GB Alex competed over the 200m sprint, where he won a Bronze medal in the mixed crew event and a Bronze in the Open event in the World Dragonboat Championships in Tampa, Florida. This was against National Dragonboat Teams from around the world and is a huge achievement and well deserved reward for al the training Alex has been putting in leading up to the event.

Tasha Fensome - Football

Tasha is currently the leading goal scorer in the Eastern Regional Premier League (the 4th level of Ladies Football) with 14 goals in 10 games. She lead her team last season to the runners up spot in the league with 27 goals. Tasha has progressed and developed hugely over the last year, both as a player, leader and a person. She now leads the line for the Ladies first team at just 20 years of age and is regarded as the best player in our league.

Nora Haggart – Ironman

In August, competing for Bedford Harriers Athletics Club at the Regensbury Ironman in Germany, Nora qualified in her age category for the Ironman Triathlon World Championships in Hawaii. In October Nora competed against world class professionals battling strong crosswinds and scorching sun for the 2.4 mile sea swim, 112.4 mile bike ride and marathon 26.2 mile run which she completed in 13 hours and 23 minutes and came a spectacular 19th in her age group.

Lucy James – Athletics

The highlight of Lucy’s season was winning the Gold medal as part of the GB’s 4x400m Relay at the European Junior Athletics Championships in Estonia, with a time just outside the British Record. Lucy produced a lifetime best performance of 53.87 seconds to reach the final of the individual 400m event. Lucy also took an individual Bronze medal at the AAA U20 Championships. Lucy finished the season ranked second in the UK in the U20 400m event and seventh in the U20 European Women’s Athletics Rankings.

Daniella Luparello – Taekwon-Do

Daniella won 2 Gold medals at the Taekwon-Do Mediterranean Open in Italy this year and was part of the Chand Institute of Taekwon-Do Team which won 7 Golds, 7 Silvers and 3 Bronze medals. Daniella is part of Team UK so she has represented England and Wales internationally. Over the years Daniella has developed her skills at college and at the club and she is now seen as one of the main assistant instructors for the Institute.

Dian MacDonald-Smith – Rowing

Dian has achieved outstanding results both on and off the water this season. Dian won Gold at the British Indoor Championships in her age category (50 – 59 years) and got selected to join the British Team and travel to the European Championships where she once again battled to a superb Gold medal. Not only has Dian achieved success indoors she has raced continuously throughout the season in a Single Scull winning at a selection of Heads and Regattas.

Eimear Mullen – Ironman and Duathlons

Eimear has recorded some impressive results so far this year including 1st at the Irish Duathlon Championships and 3rd at the British Elite Duathlon Championships. During 2011 Eimear won her first race as a pro-Tri Star in Majorca and came 2nd at the Ironman 70.3 UK in Wimblewall. Eimear has also represented both Northern Ireland and the UK in Tetrathlon (similar to a Modern Pentathlon).

Michael Puplampu – Triple Jump

Michael received a Silver medal in the triple jump at the British University Championships and went on to get a Bronze medal at the Senior Aviva European Trials and UK Championships and should have gone on to represent GB at the U23 European Championships but suffered another set back injury whilst competing at the Loughborough International in May. Even though Michael has had a tough past two years he has put himself in a position where he has a real chance of making the senior team in 2012.

Tim Thomas – Thai Boxing

Tim won 2 Muay Thai (Thai Boxing) World titles, the ISKA and WRSA World titles at 66kg and has just regained number 1 in the UK Muay Thai Rankings in Sheffield. Tim’s progression through the sport of Thai Boxing has seen him win various English, UK and European titles and currently holds 2 of the highest World Title belts. Tim is already on his way to becoming one of the UK’s greatest Muay Thai fighters and is always willing to help with training fighters less experienced and encourage them with the positive side of a very disciplined sport.

Howard Travis – Cricket, Rugby and Swimming

At Wilden Cricket Club Howard started as Vice President membership which now raises over £1500 per year, this secures the Club’s future having been run for about six years. Some years ago Howard helped Bedford Rugby Club stay as a Community Owned Club by raising £50000. Presently Howard is organising a cross English Channel swim for a Police colleague, he aims to raise funds for Help the Heroes and has already received £3000 in advanced sponsorship.

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Holly Aitchison – Golf

Holly finished 2nd at the Deloitte Dutch Ladies Open, 13th at the Ladies Sicilian Open, 7th at the Rocoh British Open and is currently placed 59th in the Ladies European tour Order of Merit. Holly first started playing golf at the age of 11 and turned professional nearly three years ago. Although being away playing at Major Competitions, Holly is always keen to help out her home club (Bedfordshire Golf Club) by providing talks for juniors and helping some of the younger girls with their game.

Paula Radcliffe – Athletics

Following a break from competitive running of nearly two years Paula returned to the racing scene in 2011. In her second race, the Berlin Marathon, she finished third in a world class field. Paula’s time of 2 hours 23 minutes and 46 seconds, modest by her own exalted standards, surpassed the Olympic Qualifying Standard for London 2012. In the past Paula has won 30 medals including 22 Gold medals in International Competitions but is still regularly referred to as ‘the Bedford Athlete’.

Etienne Stott – Canoeing

Etienne is world ranked 6th in Men’s Canoe Slalom and took the Silver medal at the Australian Open in 2011. Etienne has a range of World and European placings during the last few years including a 4th place at the World Championships in 2009 and a 3rd place at the World Championships in the same year. Etienne is still a member of Viking Kayak Club but his training gives him the opportunity to travel aboard a lot.

George Thorne – Football

George joined the West Bromwich Albion Academy as an under 16 and made his Barclays Premier League debut as a second half substitute in the final game of the 2010/11 season. George signed his first professional contract in January 2010 which gave him a 3 year deal. George became the Albion’s youngest league debutant in 49 years when he came on in the Coca Cola Championships game against Sheffield Wednesday.

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