It is almost time for Central's sports people to shine off the field.

As the Central Otago Sports Awards near, organisers are calling for people to get their nominations in with just one week left to do so.

Former New Zealand cricketer and well-known commentator, and TV personality Mark Richardson will attend the awards ceremony as guest speaker on Friday, May 10 at the Lake Wānaka Centre, Wānaka.

Sport Central’s spokesperson Kelvin (Tiny) Carruthers said the event has a high profile across the region from Maniototo to Roxburgh and the Lakes District.

“We encourage clubs, family, friends or the nominees themselves to get those nominations in. The criteria and nomination form can be found on the Sport Central page of the Sport Otago website.”

Tiny said it was a wonderful evening, highlighting the depth of talent in Central.

“It is a very inspiring and humbling experience just to be in the same room as so many talented athletes and volunteers.” 

New in this year’s programme is a ‘Hall of Fame’ which he expects to attract considerable interest.

The qualifying period for sporting achievements is for the 2023/2024 sporting year from April 1, 2023 to March 31, 2024.

Tiny thanked the sponsor for each award category along with Queenstown Lakes District Council, Central Lakes Trust and major sponsor Forsyth Barr.

Find more information on the awards here.