Each year, we recognise the people within our sport that give their free time, passion, and energy to developing triathlon within their communities. The work of these wonderful volunteers is invaluable. The majority of sports would not exist without them, and triathlon is no different. Recognising and rewarding the volunteers by way of our workforce awards is one of our ways to say thank you for all the hard work they put in year after year.
In November 2023 the workforce award nominations opened and below is a list of our 2023 award winners.
Volunteer of the year 2023
Jayne Cox
We are delighted to award Jayne with our Volunteer of the year award 2023. Jayne always goes above and beyond and shows huge commitment to her voluntary role at Celtic Tri. Jayne takes it upon herself to organise the Juniors. No one ever has to ask her to do anything. For a number of years now, Jayne has coordinated the Junior cross country section. Prior to races, she sends out all of the race information. On race day, Jayne is one of the first to arrive and last to leave. She sets up the club HQ, collects all the numbers, organises the course recce and always carries spare kit just in case they are needed. Jayne has also introduced initiatives such as the Spikes Swap Shop, where juniors who have outgrown their spikes can recycle them and pass them onto the next round of athletes. Jayne’s dedication to the club is admirable!
Coach of the year 2023
Richard Barry
Richard’s dedication to coaching the young athletes in NUTs is inspirational. When coaching new members, he works to build confidence as well as technique. His coaching technique is personal, providing tailored and specific advice for each athlete. Members of the club have expressed how much they appreciate Richard’s support, his patience and his kindness when they hit a plateau or have a difficult session. As well as supporting the athletes, Richard reflects on training with the other coaches and is eager to work together to improve. Congratulations Richard!
Technical Official of the year 2023
Ellie Preece
Congratulations to Ellie Preece for being awarded Technical Official of the year 2023. Ellie is a great female ambassador for Officiating in Wales. In 2023, Ellie was the first Welsh TO to be selected to represent the Youth Commonwealth Games in Trinidad and Tobago. She is always extremely helpful, offering friendly advice not only to participants but to other officials as well. Well done Ellie!
Sustainability Award 2023
Always Aim High Events
Always Aim High Events is Triathlon Cymru’s winner of the Sustainability Award for a second year in a row. They continue to put sustainability at the heart of their events and are committed to reducing their impact on the environment. Always Aim High promote and implement a strict no littering policy, cupless races, single use plastic bottle ban, locally sourced slate finisher medals. They also introduced some exciting environmental initiatives such as Tees for Trees – no longer offering free t-shirts as a race memento other than to Legend Athletes who are given the choice of planting trees instead of a free finisher t-shirt. With Director Nigel part of the Sustainability Commission, we think Always Aim High are doing a fantastic job of educating anyone that comes to race or spectate at their events, spreading the word and doing their bit for the environment.
Event of the year 2023
Neath Valley Triathlon
The Neath Valley Triathlon is a sprint event that is perfect for beginners and experienced triathletes. A 400m pool swim, a 22km undulating out and back cycle has only one (well marshalled) junction to navigate, and then a 3km off road run before finishing back at the leisure centre. It has been the stepping stone for many people who are entering their first multi-sport event. Open to anyone over the age of 14 years, the event is a fantastic opportunity for junior athletes providing additional safety features where needed such as chaperoning on the bike course. The support and encouragement on the course is exceptional.
Inclusivity Award 2023
Claire Deacon (Pembrokeshire Triathlon Club)
Congratulations to Claire Deacon for winning our Inclusivity Award for 2023. Claire, a coach at Pembrokeshire Triathlon Club, has gone out of her way to ensure that anyone no matter their ability has the opportunity to be a part of the club and take part in triathlon. She has proposed initiatives such as the ‘Return to Running’ programme. Now in its second year, the programme has been successful in adding many new faces to the club and evening out the gender balance of the club. Claire’s attitude ensures that everyone feels that they are good enough and helps the club feel inclusive and welcoming. Well done Claire and thank you for being such a great role model for ensuring that triathlon in Wales is as inclusive as it can be.
Club of the year 2023
Merthyr Triathlon Club
Merthyr Triathlon Club’s open door policy invites people from all walks of life into the active lifestyles that comes as part of triathlon. With a large range of sessions such as strength and conditioning, pool and open water, social run/bike rides, Zwift, the club offers something for everyone. The club also promotes the local area and surrounding valleys by arranging meet-ups in local coffee shops and bike shops to help businesses stay afloat in the difficult climate. Inviting and investing in individuals, Merthyr Tri Club provides a safe space where every member is part of the family.
