Weightlifter, Ellie Pryor, selected as Young Sportsperson of the Year by OCS UK
At an exclusive event at The Oval, Ellie Pryor, the 17 year old weightlifter from Aberdare was named Young Sportsperson of the Year by OCS UK. The company brought together eight young athletes from a range of disciplines to celebrate their selection for OCS UK’s 2018 mentoring and bursary programme.
Now in its 21st year, the 2018 Young Sportsperson of the Year programme is designed to nurture talent in young people and support the communities in which OCS operates. During November OCS UK staff have learned more about the eight finalists and their sports, and following a vote, selected Ellie as overall OCS Young Sportsperson of the Year 2018.
As the Welsh Record Holder and British Under17 Champion, Ellie has already enjoyed great success and this award will help her and her family meet the burden of training, travelling and competing.
She comments: “I feel honoured to be recognised, and that people want to help me in my career. It makes me want to work harder to achieve my dreams. It’s an amazing opportunity for me and the support will really help me to make a smooth transition and continue at an international level.”
Bob Taylor, OCS CEO UK, Ireland and Middle East comments: “Each of the young athletes that have been selected to be part of The Young Sportsperson programme are an inspiration to all of us at OCS. We are proud to be able to support them and help them fulfil their ambitions.
“The determination, dedication and passion that these young people demonstrate through their training and competitions is admirable, and in turn, we are passionate about nurturing that talent, not just within our business, but also across the communities in which we work.”
Over the last 20 years, OCS has awarded bursaries of more than £500,000 to over 225 young athletes, 27 of whom have gone on to win Olympic, Paralympic and World Championship medals for Team GB. The awards give promising young athletes recognition and support to help them with the burden of training, travelling and competing. The independent recognition and financial assistance provided by OCS makes a huge difference at the start of the athletes’ journey when, often, parents and guardians are their only sponsors.