Gold medallist picks up the Mick O’Neill award

SPECIAL Olympics multi-medallist, Anna Leighton, has been presented with the Mick O’Neill Sports Encouragement Award at the recent Ballarat Sportsmen’s Club Dinner.

Leighton was acknowledged for her three-medal haul during March’s World Special Olympics held in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Eremites.

The 19 year old from Alfredton’s effort at the games included a gold in the 100m backstroke, silver in the 4x100m medley relay and bronze in the 200m freestyle.

Ballarat Sportsmen’s Club Sports Encourage Award is presented in memory of member and Past President Mick O’Neill who passed away in 2001.

Mr O’Neill was a driving force behind swimming in Ballarat and the formation of the Ballarat swim club.

The award recognizes a young swimmer who demonstrates ability and determination to succeed, two characteristics really appreciated by O’Neill during his involvement with the sport.

The trophy, designed by Darrell Chibnall, signifies a drop of water and each year a replica is created by Findlay Engineering.

The Mick O’Neill Sports Encouragement Award and presented each year with nominations called for on the Club Website in March and April.