The 2024 Sporting Equals Awards celebrated the contributions made by ethnically diverse people and communities across the sports and physical activity sector in London.
Organised by Sporting Equals, the charity that champions race equality in sport, the event brought together a stellar lineup of athletes, grassroots heroes and industry leaders in the sporting world. Hosted by comedian and TV personality Judi Love, the event honoured those breaking barriers, from elite competitors to community champions, and highlighted the ongoing challenges of inequality in sport.
A standout of the night was legendary British sprinter Linford Christie, who received the Sporting Equals Lifetime Achievement Award. The most decorated British sprinter of all time, Christie’s influence goes far beyond the track. He has dedicated his career to supporting underrepresented communities and inspiring the next generation of athletes. His youth engagement programme, Street Athletics, which he co-created with fellow athlete Darren Campbell, helped unearth future Olympians and provided a platform for young athletes from diverse backgrounds. Christie’s commitment to creating opportunities for all made him a deserving recipient of the award, recognizing his legacy both on and off the track.
STAND-OUT SPORTS TALENT
Cindy Ngamba, the first refugee athlete to win an Olympic medal, received the Sportswoman of the Year award. Ngamba’s journey to success has been one of resilience and determination, overcoming immense adversity to win bronze in the women’s 75kg boxing competition at the Paris Olympics. Her story is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of sport and the strength of the human spirit.
Olympian Samuel Reardon, who played a vital role in winning two bronze medals for Team GB in the men’s 4x400m relay and mixed 4x400m relay at the Paris Games, was named Sportsman of the Year. His athletic prowess and determination on the international stage made him a standout talent in British athletics this year.
The awards also recognised the contributions of sports figures who have used their platforms to champion important causes. Frank Bruno MBE, former world heavyweight boxing champion, received the Peloton Game Changer Award for his tireless advocacy in promoting mental health awareness. By openly sharing his own mental health struggles, Bruno has helped destigmatise mental illness, especially in the sports world, where discussions about mental wellbeing are often overlooked.
Image credit: Sporting Equals
CELEBRATING ELITE ATHLETES & UNSUNG HEROES
The Sporting Equals Awards didn’t only shine a light on elite athletes, but also celebrated the unsung heroes making an impact at the grassroots level. Akbar Khan, awarded the FA Community Champion of the Year, has spent over 40 years championing disabled children at the PHAB Club in Bradford. Having started as a child himself to support his disabled brothers, Khan’s lifelong commitment to inclusivity in sport has changed countless lives.
The awards, delivered in collaboration with Sport England as part of its ‘Uniting the Movement’ strategy, highlight the crucial role sport plays in driving societal change. With support from key governing bodies including England Athletics, The FA, Swim England, and Youth Sport Trust, the event emphasised the importance of tackling racism and inequality within the sports industry.
Arun Kang OBE, Chief Executive of Sporting Equals, highlighted the urgency of the awards in today’s climate, noting that they come at a pivotal time. “Following a summer of social unrest in the UK, the Sporting Equals Awards come at a critical time for race inequality. Sport plays a vital role in creating change and bringing communities together. The inspiring work of our winners reflects the significant progress being made and the efforts still required,”
The 2024 Sporting Equals Awards showcased the power of sport to break down barriers, unite communities, and celebrate diversity. The event also celebrated the winners for their incredible contributions to society and sport.
2024 SPORTING EQUALS AWARDS WINNERS
The full list of 2024 Sporting Equals Awards winners include:
- Sportsman of the Year – Samuel Reardon
- Sportswoman of the Year – Cindy Ngamba
- Sports Organisation of the Year – GB Taekwondo
- Lifetime Achievement Award – Linford Christie
- Coach of the Year – Harley Hicks
- Rising Star of the Year – Funmi Oduwaiye
- Young Sportsperson of the Year – Kai Hockley
- Sports Project of the Year – The Flowhesion Foundation (Halliwell Girls Sports Hub)
- Community Champion of the Year – Akbar Khan
- Wellbeing Award – BEAP Community Partnership Sports Organisation
- Community Tennis Award – Black Tennis Mentors
- Gamechanger Award – Frank Bruno MBE
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