This year's awards will be a special occasion as Sport Wanganui celebrates the 50th anniversary of the awards ceremony, which was first held in 1963.
Looking back to where it all starts is the flavour for this year's event. The theme is grassroots; going back to our beginnings and where it was that our internationally and locally-achieving sports people first began - the local community sport environment and the clubs, coaches, volunteers, and administrators that fostered the love of the sport and set them on their journey.
Always a special point in the proceedings is the induction of members to the Wanganui District Council Hall of Fame, where outstanding Wanganui achievers from the past are acknowledged, plus the Sport Wanganui Roll of Honour which recognises volunteers with a contribution of over 25 years.
In keeping with the shared focus of local community, the Ray White brand compliments the Sports Awards nicely and Sport Wanganui chief executive Danny Jonas said the organisation was delighted to have this distinguished Wanganui business associated with the event.
The team at Ray White Wanganui have always been known to be very supportive of sport in and around Wanganui.
Ray White Wanganui director Tim Hocquard continues to be involved in community sport. He coaches junior Marist Club rugby teams and manages a representative rugby team in the winter season and during the summer months is usually found coaching children on the cricket grounds.
"Having an opportunity to be a part of the Wanganui Sports Awards is huge for us at Ray White Wanganui," he said.
"Being a Wanganui-owned business, we know what it takes for the little guy to be able to rise beyond the local scene and compete on the bigger stage.
"It's all about commitment, trust and ultimately success, and at Ray White Wanganui, we are truly committed to seeing Wanganui people and Wanganui as a whole succeed."
This year's awards will be held at the Wanganui Racecourse on November 15. Nominations for award recipients open on Monday, September 2.
