THE most talented athletes, sports clubs and volunteers in East Ayrshire were recognised and celebrated for their sporting success at a recent ceremony.

The East Ayrshire Sports Council and Talented Athlete Awards evening also celebrate those from the area that have made a positive contribution to sport.

This year saw over 50 athletes being supported through the Talented Athlete Support Programme with all athletes either national or international champions, or representing their country in their chosen sport. 

There were a number of worthy winners.There were a number of worthy winners. (Image: David Gordon) 2024 has seen some notable achievements for the athletes, nationally and internationally, which has added to East Ayrshire’s illustrious medal haul tally.

This includes five world champions, nine European champions, 18 British champions and 67 Scottish national champions.

In addition to a host of personal recognition accolades, the main awards shed the light on some of the best and most inspiring individuals and clubs in the area.

Cumnock Juniors 2009s was nominated as a finalist in the Team Performance of the Year category.

The winners were:

Disabled Sports Person of the Year 2024

  • Cameron Radigan

Jim Higgins Youth Sport Personality of the Year 2024

  • Jack Bisset

Individual Performance of the Year 2024

  • Aaron Sarwar

Team Performance of the Year 2024

  • Ben Rutherford & Sophie Galbraith (Ayrshire Acro)

Inspiring Females in Sport Award 2024

  • Gillian Mitchell

East Ayrshire Sports Council Club of the Year 2024

  • Senjokai Karate

Service to Sport 2024

  • Chick Hamilton (Kilmarnock Amateur Weightlifting Club)

Provost Claire Leitch said: “This has been another inspiring event and I am incredibly proud of how much success our athletes gain and bring back to East Ayrshire.

"The successes that our athletes and clubs have had in national and international events make East Ayrshire the envy of a number or larger authorities across the country."