South Yorkshire Olympians, Paralympians, and Special Olympics Athletes Honored at Reception

Athletes from South Yorkshire who participated in this summer’s Olympic and Paralympic Games in Paris, along with those who competed at the 2023 Special Olympics, have been recognized at a civic reception. Oliver Coppard, the region’s mayor, welcomed approximately 100 guests to the event held at the Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park, a location where many of the athletes conduct their training. Diver Yasmin Harper and boxer Cindy Ngamba, both Olympic bronze medalists, attended the reception, as did Niall Guite, who secured gold and silver medals in cycling at the Special Olympics. Coppard stated that the region has consistently “punched above its weight,” and he also paid tribute to notable sports stars from the area, including Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Ed Clancy, and Bryony Page. He remarked: “They have shown us what is possible with hard work, determination, and unwavering support. They have made us proud.” He further commented that South Yorkshire’s “world-class” sporting infrastructure demonstrates the area’s capacity to “nurture talent at every level.” Stephanie Peacock, the Barnsley South MP and Minister for Sport, expressed her awareness of the region’s “brilliant sporting history, producing an incredible number of athletes.” She added: “The medals won at the Paris 2024 Olympics and Paralympics by athletes born, living in, or training in South Yorkshire is testament to the great work being done across the region.” Other athletes honored at the gathering included para-badminton player Jack Shephard and Paralympic table tennis players Meghan Shackleton and Billy Shilton. Trees commemorating the 17 athletes who earned medals at Paris 2024 have also been planted at the Sheffield Olympic Legacy Park. Each tree features a plaque made of Sheffield steel, engraved with the athlete’s name and accomplishment. Cindy Ngamba commented: “Sheffield has welcomed me with open arms.“My training for the Olympics took place here, at the GB Boxing facility. They provided me with everything I needed to compete and perform at an elite level in such a difficult sport.” She continued: “Their staff, coaches, physiotherapists and psychologists pushed me to my limit. “This allowed me to be the best I could be, to go out onto the world stage and show everyone what I was capable of in boxing. I’m grateful for their support.”