The yearly Isle of Man Sports Awards will feature Matthew Richardson, a celebrated track cyclist known for setting records, as its distinguished guest.
Born in Maidstone, Kent, the 26-year-old Richardson competed for Australia until 2024, when he began representing Great Britain instead.
Last year, after securing both Olympic and Commonwealth medals, Richardson made history by becoming the inaugural cyclist to complete a 200m flying lap in less than nine seconds, surpassing the benchmark he had established just a day prior.
Hosted at the Villa Marina, this awards ceremony recognizes outstanding athletic achievements on the island, presenting accolades for male and female sportspersons of the year, a disability sportsperson, and a prestigious lifetime achievement award.
Among the contenders for this year’s honors are prominent Manx personalities such as Christa Cain, an Island Games medallist, and Billy Harris, a tennis player who advanced to the second round of Wimbledon during the previous year.
Motivational Figure
The athlete from Kent, who recently secured the sprint title at the European Track Cycling Championships as the first British male, commented that the Isle of Man possesses a “profound sporting heritage.”
The island boasts a rich history in both road and track cycling, exemplified by local hero Mark Cavendish, who eclipsed Eddy Merckx’s record for Tour de France stage wins with his 35th triumph in 2024.
This iconic cyclist, hailing from Laxey, received a lifetime accomplishment award at the previous year’s event, subsequent to his departure from competitive cycling.
Peter Kennaugh, a past British Road Race Champion, and Lizzie Holden, a participant in the inaugural Tour de France Femmes, are also natives of this island.
Richardson further stated: “This marks my initial trip to the island, and I eagerly anticipate encountering the local athletes and immersing myself in the island’s athletic traditions for a brief period.”
According to Daphne Caine MHK, Richardson’s attendance is expected to “motivate both competitors and supporters.”
The current year’s awards presentation is scheduled for 26 February at the Villa Marina in Douglas.
