The four nominees for the February Athletes’ Athlete of the Month award have been revealed after several major competitions for British sport over the last few weeks.
In an athlete-decided award that celebrates both sporting success and personal accomplishments, the four nominees will be voted on by their peers after enjoying months to remember.
The shortlist comprises Arthur Farley (sailing), Grace Reid (diving), Laura Stephens (swimming) and Marcus Wyatt (skeleton).
First up, Arthur was diagnosed with chronic leukaemia at just 19 almost exactly a year ago. He has since spent long stretches in hospital and had to battle Covid-19 for three weeks but returned to sailing towards the end of 2023. Last month, aged just 20, he competed at the senior European Championships – finishing 34th out of 135 participants.
Grace became the first female British diver to win an individual world medal when she earned silver in the 1m springboard. She also ensured Britain has a full quota of diving spots at the Paris Olympics by finishing eighth in the 3m springboard.
Laura also enjoyed a remarkable World Championships in Doha, securing her first medal at that level by becoming world 200m butterfly champion. It was Britain’s first individual World Championship gold in a women’s event since Rebecca Adlington’s victory in the 800m Freestyle in Shanghai in 2011.
Finally, Marcus became European champion with compatriot and 2023 champion Matt Weston finishing second and Amelia Coltman securing bronze in the women’s competition. Marcus overcame what he called “the worst result of my career” after finishing 31st in Lillehammer the week before, saying:
“There’s not much that would be better than going from 31st one week to European champion the next.”
Elite athletes can vote for their Athlete of the Month by heading to their latest BEAA email, with the winner to be confirmed shortly.
Former elite athletes can get involved via the British Elite Athletes Alumni app – which they can register for here!
Good luck to everyone shortlisted!
