Rapids’ swimmer, Amy Leighton, was one of 12 Indigenous athletes who received the provincial Premier’s Award for Aboriginal Excellence in sport. Along with her family, Leighton made the trip on Richmond B.C. on March 20 where she was honoured alongside the province’s other talented athletes.
After being honoured for her achievements as an Indigenous athlete, 16-year-old Amy Leighton gave all the credit to the people in her support network who have been critical to her development.
“I just wanted to thank my parents, friends, coaches and everyone who helped me get this far,” she said. “Without all of their love and support, I would not be the person, student or athlete I am today.”
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The young swimmer has competed with the Prince Rupert Amateur Swim Club for 11 years, training seven days-per-week and travelling across the province to take part in swim meets. In 2017, Leighton competed in the North American Indigenous Games in Toronto, where she won six medals, including three golds.
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The award also recognized an athlete’s contribution to their community outside of their sport. In addition to her accomplishments inside the pool, Leighton has spent time volunteering both as a peer tutor at Charles Hays Secondary School, and as a facilitator during Aboriginal and sports days at the Prince Rupert Middle School.
“I felt pretty honoured,” she said. “It was very nerve wracking to have to give a speech, but I was proud to be up there.”
matthew.allen@thenorthernview.com
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