AN avid angler hooked himself as well as a record fish and a huge trophy with his sea-fishing exploits.
Francis Sykes, a student at Trinity Academy, Thorne, had a fisherman’s tale to tell when he collected his trophy at the annual sports awards.
The Year 10 student snagged himself on the hook along with a 10lb ling as he competed in the Scarborough Sea Angling Festival.
The contest rewarded competitors for the most fish caught but Francis was presented with the Stephen Paul Whitfield Cup for the heaviest fish by the Scarborough Angling Committee.
“I’ve got the scars to prove it,” said Francis, who has fished with his father since he was about six, going out to sea every four-six weeks.
“I thought my thumb was hurting from the sheer effort of bringing the fish in, on the first of nine days, but then, when I looked, I realised the hook had gone through my thumb. I knew I hadn’t won the overall contest so I was very happy to be awarded a massive trophy, which came as a complete surprise.”
Francis was among scores of students, joined by friends and family, at Trinity Academy’s annual sports awards evening.
Budding sports stars were recognised for their efforts in football, rugby, hockey, netball, tennis, rounders, athletics and cricket after competing against some of the region’s best young athletes.
Hosted by head of PE Katie O’Brien, the guests heard about students’ victories and how they bounced back from the experience of defeat.
“Their commitment, levels of enthusiasm and sheer determination never ceased to amaze us,” she said. “Every single one deserves recognition because of the contribution they have made.”
Principal David Page added: “They continue to be excellent ambassadors and we are proud to have them represent us as an academy.”
For David Moores, 13, the ceremony marked the pinnacle of his achievements so far as he took the coveted Barry Marks Award.
A keen rugby player and cricketer, he is a member of the Yorkshire England Development Rugby Squad and dreams of playing professionally one day as hooker or prop.
“I love sport and was really pleased to win this award,” he said.
Awards
Netball – overall winner Frankie Middleton, Year 10
Hockey – overall winner Ellie Aldsworth, Year 10
Rounders – overall winner Mollie Moffatt, Year 10
Rugby – overall winner Ryan Pentland,Year 9
Tennis – Overall winner Megan Williamson, Year 9
Football – overall winner Thomas Easen, Year 7
Cricket – overall winner Connall Day,Year 9/10 team
Barry Marks Award – David Moores, Year 8
Stephen Paul Whitfield Cup – Francis Sykes, Year 10