A SPORTS and Exercise Science undergraduate at Leeds Trinity University has won the Student Sport: Performance category at the 2021 Leeds Sports Awards.

Charlotte McGuinness, 19, received the award in recognition of her achievements as an international powerlifter for Team GB.

Charlotte, who was shortlisted for the award alongside Leeds Beckett University Tennis Club and University of Leeds Volleyball Club, was recognised for her achievements at the Para Powerlifting World Cup in March, where she won a bronze medal in the women up to 50kg category with a lift of 74kg. The competition also gave Charlotte the opportunity to qualify for the Commonwealth Games in 2022.

Now in its 18th year, the Leeds Sports Awards was held at the Leeds Media and Broadcasting Studios. BBC Sports presenter Tanya Arnold was hosting the event, which for the first time was televised live on Leeds TV.

The event saw sporting heroes, both professional and amateur, gather to celebrate the achievement of the city after a year of ongoing change to sporting events and competition due to the pandemic.

Leeds athletes Alistair Brownlee, Joe Root, Kalvin Phillips and Hannah Cockcroft were among the finalists celebrating the success of the city in 2020.

Charlotte said: “It was an amazing night – I feel so honoured to have won and it was fantastic to represent the university. Training throughout lockdown paid off at the World Cup, and now I’m looking forward to continuing with training, which will hopefully stand me in good stead for the Commonwealth Games in 2022.”

Sarah Todd, Sports Development Manager at Leeds Trinity University, said: “I am thrilled that Charlotte has won a Leeds Sports Award. After a busy year of studying and competing, it is amazing for her to be celebrated for her achievements by the city. Charlotte’s passion and determination is an inspiration to us all and I am so grateful that platforms like the Leeds Sports Awards allow her to showcase her success and give her the recognition she deserves.”