North Okanagan athletes and teams have enjoyed a banner year, bringing home many medals and accolades.
But who deserves the region’s biggest trophies?
The call has gone out for members of the public to nominate local sporting heroes for the annual Tim Hortons North Okanagan Athlete, Team and Leadership awards.
You can participate by sending in your pick, either by telephone or e-mail to Ann Holmes, committee director, at 250-308-1558 or involved2@shaw.ca.
Nominations are being received now with the closing date set for Friday, May 31.
“Last year’s race was so tight, two great competitors were chosen to share the 2023 Tim Hortons North Okanagan Athlete of the Year trophy,” said Holmes. “These were ultra athlete Leah Goldstein and multi-sports star Aimee Skinner.”
Goldstein is a renowned international cyclist who is best known for her incredible solo victory over both men and women at the 2021 4,800 kilometre Race Across America.
Skinner’s all-round sports prowess helped the Kalamalka Secondary Lakers volleyball team win the provincials where she was named tournament MVP.
She also received an all-star award for her performance when the Zone 5 Venom ringette team won the Western Canadian title as well as the provincials.
The Venom won last year’s Tim Hortons Team of the Year trophy.
The 2023 Tim Hortons Leadership in Sports trophy went to Vernon Curling Club manager Dave Merklinger who has been on the job since 2007 and is considered one of the world’s best ice makers, having created perfect surfaces used at the Olympics, Worlds, Scotties and Briers. The final award winners will be chosen by a panel of media and sports community representatives.