STRATFORD-upon-Avon Boat Club’s head adaptive coach, Mark Dewdney, won the unsung hero award at the prestigious Variety Disability Sports Awards.
Dewdney received the award at the @sohoplace Theatre in London for his selfless contribution to local, regional, national and international adaptive rowing as a coach and mentor over a period of 18 years.
The award is organised by Variety, the children’s charity, and celebrates the achievements of disabled sports volunteers and athletes.
Dewdney said: “Adaptive rowing is very volunteer led with the need for a whole team of helpers to assist the adaptive athlete to boat, buddy row, provide safety launch cover, bank-based supervision and coaching.
“This doesn’t just happen, it takes a lot of planning. Each person has different capabilities and we all work together to find the best way to adapt the boat, equipment and training protocols to meet the individual athlete’s specific needs.
“The award is recognition of this great team effort. Access to disability sport is a great thing for so many, physically and mentally contributing to their overall wellbeing.”
Stratford’s adaptive squad has grown to 20 athletes following the recent addition of a number of junior rowers.
Stratford Boat Club’s president, Paul Stanton added: “Mark’s well-deserved award not only brings kudos to Mark himself but also to the club.
“Through Mark’s efforts and those of his adaptive squad, the club have high hopes of some athletes achieving possible Paralympic standard in addition to those enjoying adaptive rowing for competitive as well recreational pleasure.
“We are very proud of Mark’s achievements.”
The club’s longest serving adaptive athlete, Hattie Throssell, also received an award at the squad’s Christmas dinner.
Dewdney said: “The club’s award for ‘Rowing Despite Adversity’ isn’t given lightly but the president and I were of one mind in the choice as Hattie’s true grit, determination and sheer fight is humbling to see and an example to us all.
“A well deserved recipient.”
