By Isle of Wight Observer
Almost 80 nominees will be in the running for the 50th Isle of Wight Sports Achievement Awards, which take place at Medina Theatre, in Newport, on March 27.
The evening will also celebrate the Island’s Olympians over the years, with several expected to be present.
The glittering awards night, organised by the Isle of Wight Sports Foundation, has WRS Systems as main sponsor. The company, which supplies electronic point-of-sale systems, has a long history of supporting good causes on the Island. Other Island businesses and charities have sponsored the 24 individual award categories, ranging from junior boys and girls to masters sportsmen and women.
There will also be special awards for Service to Sport. Lifetime Achievement and Outstanding Commitment, honouring the Islands behind-the-scenes sporting heroes.
Lord-Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon, High Sheriff, Graham Biss, the Island’s two MPs, Joe Robertson and Richard Quigley, IW Council representatives, and sponsor reporters will be among the invited guests.
Claire Beasley, chairman of the foundation, said: “We are looking forward to making this a truly special night, celebrating the incredible sports people and teams the Isle of Wight produces.
“Guests will also enjoy a special Olympics film, produced by Richard Priest, and edited by the IW Observer’s Tilly Walder.”