BMX Stars Win First Sophie Hosking Awards


Trophies presented to young riders

Two young sporting heroes from Merton have won the first ever Sophie Hosking Legacy awards.

Lily Walters, aged 13 and Dexter Razzell, 10, were given the awards by the Mayor of Merton, Councillor Krystal Miller (right), for being the most improved male and female riders at the Merton BMX track in 2013.

The young people were put forward by the Merton Saints BMX Club who are based at the track in Mitcham.

Dexter, who started his BMX journey when the track first opened in 2012, has gone from a novice to expert rider representing Merton in last year’s London Youth Games. Lily, who also started as a beginner, competed in the Youth Games and gained a top four spot in the London series of BMX.

Following the London 2012 rowing success of Wimbledon's Sophie Hosking (below right), it was agreed by all political parties in Merton to have an award made annually in her name to encourage participation and improvement in sport.

Mayor of Merton, Councillor Krystal Miller said: “Lily and Dexter embody everything this award is about. They have shown the willingness and determination to practise and become better at the sport they love, congratulations to them both.”

Merton's cabinet member for community and culture, Councillor Nick Draper said: "Congratulations to Lily and Dexter who have shown tremendous dedication to improve their BMX skills. They are worthy winners of the Sophie Hosking Legacy award and I hope they will inspire other young people to excel in sports."

February 9, 2014