Round-the-world yachtsman Conrad Humphreys and Plymouth Albion Rugby Chairman Graham Dawe will be among a distinguished line up of sports and recreation ‘champions’ to be awarded colours by the University of Plymouth at a special event this month.
The pair will join other individuals and organisations, such as Hoops 4 Health, in being honoured at the Partners Through Sport Celebration Dinner 2010.
The event is being organised by Plymouth’s ‘Back the Bid’ England 2018 World Cup campaign and the University of Plymouth, and is set to be staged in a marquee on the Hoe on Saturday 18 September, as part of its graduation celebrations.
Former Olympic swimmer and proud Plymouthian Sharron Davies will be compering the event, which will boast competitions, auctions, sports demonstrations, live music, surf simulators and the dinner and award ceremony.
A number of special guests are also expected to attend, including Plymouth Argyle’s Peter Reid and Paul Mariner, and members of the city’s major sports teams – Argyle, Albion and the Raiders.
Doug Fletcher, Chairman of Plymouth World Cup Bid said: “The passion for football and all sport is embedded in the DNA of our city. We have an inspiring setting and natural landscape that, for years, has produced sporting heroes and this is a great opportunity for our city to recognise some of them.
“Plymouth Hoe – one location for our planned 2018 Fan Fests – is a striking venue for this prestigious event and rightful recognition of our young talent. The FIFA World Cup could provide an enormous legacy for Devon & Cornwall, not just in football, but in economic and social development for all."
Among those people honoured with colours are a number who have ties with the University, including Victor Apiafi, who founded the athletics club and has been a keen volunteer, and Marine Sports Technology student Stephen Burnip, who undertook an ambitious project to design and develop a sea-going kayak suitable for paraplegic users.
Professor Richard Stephenson, Dean of the Faculty of Health, and Pro Vice-Chancellor for Health and Recreation, will be hosting the event. He said: “Partnership underpins many of the great initiatives and projects in this city and defines the actions of the people being honoured at the dinner.
“Their innovation and ability to bring people together has benefitted thousands in the region.”
ENDS