A MULTI-TALENTED athlete raced ahead of the competition after collecting the overall winner’s trophy at a prestigious ceremony to celebrate grassroots sport.
Young swimmer and runner, Alex Boyer was presented with the Ron Lewis champion of champions’ award at the 42nd annual Darlington Sports Winners Scheme Awards.
Alex, 11, a pupil at Holy Family School, Darlington, also collected the Primary Sports Achiever award after a record-breaking year which saw him win two British biathlons, swim the 4th fastest 1500m Freestyle time for 10-year-olds in Great Britain, break seven swimming club gala records, win the town Year 6 cross country competition and set the Darlington Park Run 5k JM10 category all-time record in 19 min 49 sec.
“I was very surprised to win especially when I listened to how good all of the other nominees were” said Alex. “I’m really pleased. I love sport, especially the feeling of achievement you get you when you succeed.
“Hopefully I will be able to compete professionally when I’m older but I can’t decide yet whether that will be swimming, running or both.”
Dad John Boyer said: “Alex has been swimming since he was six-years old but the running has only been a recent addition.
“Since he joined Darlington Harriers he has really come on and we are incredibly proud of all his achievements over the past year.”
Coach Neil Smith added: “Alex has been a pleasure to coach and has shown a real desire and commitment to all of the sports in which he has represented his various clubs with unparalleled success.
“He is a real credit to his parents, coaches, school and the town. He epitomises what can be achieved with a positive attitude, dedication and hard work.”
A capacity audience of civic dignitaries, friends and family were invited to attend the glittering ceremony hosted by Darlington College.
Sponsored by Vauxhall dealers Sherwoods, Darlington Borough Council’s Healthy Darlington Scheme, Tees Valley Sport, Cleveland Bridge, Rotary International and Capita, Paul Bielby's Master Skills Sporting Academy and Cummins, the spectacular event outlined courage and determination in sports enthusiasts across Darlington.
Sherwoods managing director Alasdair MacConachie said: “It is always a privilege and a pleasure to sponsor these awards.
“The committee always work incredibly hard under the direction of their chairman Brian Dobinson to make this event such a success.
“Grassroots sport is so important and it is wonderful to recognise the passion and achievements of these young people and their dedicated coaches within our community.”
Awards were also presented to Longfield Academy student Ross Howell for his contribution to school sport, Longfield Academy Under 13 Under 13 Table Tennis Team, St George’s School Football Team, Carmel College student Layla Bell and The Red Hall Primary School Little Leaps.
Schools Sports Results
Under 11s Club Award: Darlington Under 8s Quakers
Under 17s Club Award: Darlington Mowden Park Girls
Services to Sport Under 17 Award: Ross Howell
Secondary School and Further Education Team Award: Longfield School Under 13s Table Tennis
Primary School Team Award: St George’s Football Team
Secondary/FE Sports Achiever: Layla Bell
Primary Sports Achiever: Alex Boyer
Ron Lewis Award (Overall Winner): Alex Boyer
Mulheim Friendship Award: Red Hall Little Leaps