SDS Awards recognise Samantha, Gavin, Jim and Caroline

Monday 25th September 2023

Samantha Kinghorn and Gavin Drysdale in action: Imagecomms/Bobby Gavin

The Scottish Disability Sports (SDS) Awards were held in Stirling on Sunday, with four members of the athletics community in Scotland recognised for their achievements and contributions.

Samantha Kinghorn won the Finlay Calder Trophy for Athlete of the Year, for her World Para Athletics Champs success, winning gold in the T53 100m, and silver in 400m, 800m, and 4x100m relay.

Gavin Drysdale picked up the Gordon Brown Memorial Trophy for Athletes’ Athlete of the Year, in recognition of winning GB’s first gold at the Para Athletics World Championships in Paris, winning the T72 100m in a European Record time of 16.66s.

Jim Hunter won the Elspeth Watson Trophy for his contribution to disability sport and commitment to Perth Strathtay Harriers, where he has been an active member for 40 years, and the main driver for the creation of its disability inclusion group.

Caroline Johnston received a Special Recognition Award, for her commitment to the development of disability sport and coaching at Red Star AC.

Pamela Robson, scottishathletics National Disability Pathway Officer, said: ‘I was delighted to attend this year’s SDS Awards – SDS are continuously guiding the way for inclusive sporting opportunities and celebrating success.

‘It’s great to see Samantha and Gavin pick up awards for their superb achievements at the World Para Champs in Paris.

‘I’m also so pleased to see recognition for Jim and Caroline, who have both helped to drive forwards inclusive athletics and disability sport in Scotland.

‘Congratulations to all the winners, and everyone who’s supported them.’

Congratulations to Jim Hunter winner of the Elspeth Watson Trophy ?

Jim has been an active part of his local athletics club for 40 years and since 2008 he has been the main driver for the development of a disability inclusion group #SDSAwards23 #InspiringThroughInclusion pic.twitter.com/UnKf0TVVrr

— Scottish Disability Sport (@SDS_sport) September 24, 2023

Congratulations to Caroline Johnston winner of the Special Recognition Award

Caroline for over a decade has been a driving force for the development of disability sport in the West of Scotland as well as coaching @RedStarAC #SDSAwards23 #InspiringThroughInclusion pic.twitter.com/sEIESVWnV1

— Scottish Disability Sport (@SDS_sport) September 24, 2023