A PARALYMPIC champion who fought back after losing his leg is to tell his inspirational story at this year’s Malvern Hills District Community Sports Awards.
Andy Lewis MBE struck gold at Rio 2016 in the triathlon, having already conquered the World and European stage.
After being involved in a serious motorcycle accident at the age of 16, Andy had to undergo a through the knee amputation of his right leg when he was 22.
At the time he was an excellent cross country runner and also had hopes of joining the Parachute Regiment.
However, the now 34-year-old refused to let the life-changing event break him and turned to sport as a way of relentlessly challenging himself and staying focused on his goal of becoming the best he can be.
Andy will hope to inspire some of the 200 guests and dignitaries attending this year’s sports awards, which take place at the Bank House Hotel – a new location for the event which has proved so popular over the last seven years it outgrew its previous home – on Thursday, July 13.
A total of 60 nominations were submitted for the 13 awards on offer with the winners announced on the night. There are two new categories this year – Positive Change of the Year and Sports School of the Year.
There are two new categories this year – Positive Change of the Year and Sports School of the Year.
The awards, headline sponsored by Freedom Leisure, are run by Malvern Hills District Council and recognise the hard work and success of coaches, clubs, volunteers and sporting stars.
BBC Hereford and Worcester drive time presenter Andrew Easton is once again hosting the ceremony which will be produced by Malvern-based AN Event Services.
Coun David Watkins, portfolio holder for healthier communities on Malvern Hills District Council, said: “Andy’s story is one of courage, commitment and a testament to the desire of the human spirit to triumph over adversity.
“He’s an inspiration to all of us and I’m looking forward to hearing what he has to say as well as celebrating all the wonderful ways sport is changing lives across Malvern Hills District.”
