THREE ATHLETES have a spring in their step thanks to a funding boost.
The Mayor of Reading, Cllr Rachel Eden, welcomed them and their families for a presentation of their Reading Sports Aid Fund Awards.
The fund makes small grants to promising sportspeople of any age or level of competition, and is to help with competition and training costs, or for specific equipment.
Sophie Gray, 25, is a member of Reading Rowing Club and the World Class Start Programme. She was awarded £200 to help with the costs of equipment and competition.
Asinia Byfield, 33, is a super welterweight boxer with 16 career wins. He received £200 to help with training and equipment costs.
And Esmae Elmore, 6, who only took up gymnastics last year and has already won medals in county competitions, has benefitted from £100 to help with the cost of training.
The Oddfellows Reading District, which is part of one of the UK’s oldest and largest friendly societies, has been the sole contributor to the Reading Sports Aid Fund in recent years.
Its Chairman, Fiona Vince, attended with her husband, Russell.
“It’s wonderful to see that local athletes are able to benefit from the Reading Sports Aid Fund, and I wish them every success in their sporting careers,” she said.
Cllr Eden, who is also Chair of the Reading Sports Aid Fund, said: “It was a pleasure to meet with the successful recipients of this year’s Reading Sports Aid Fund.
“We are extremely grateful to the Reading Oddfellows for their generous sponsorship. Their support is so much appreciated and not only helps local athletes financially, but also helps us to acknowledge the achievements of these talented sportsmen and women.”
More information and the application form for the Reading Sports Aid Fund are available at www.reading.gov.uk/leisure/active-reading/sport/sports-aid-sports-futures/.
People wishing to find out more about the Oddfellows should contact District Secretary Debbie Jex on 0118 957 3354 or Debbie.Jex@oddfellows.co.uk.
