Sally Pearson has been named Female Athlete of the Year at the AIS Sport Performance Awards in Sydney tonight.
The AIS Sport Performance Awards celebrate the nation’s sporting achievements, with awards for male and female athlete of the year; Para-performance; emerging athlete; international team; coach; and leadership. Almost 400 guests gathered at The Star in Sydney for the black-tie function to celebrate the year in Australian sport.
Pearson was honoured having closed the door on three years of injury woe to win her second 100m hurdles crown at the 2017 IAAF World Championships in London in an inspirational performance. The reigning Olympic Champion, clocked 12.59 to finish ahead of Dawn Harper-Nelson (USA) and Pamela Dutkiewicz (GER).
One of the greatest moments in not only @sallypearson's career, but in Australian sport! #9SportsSunday pic.twitter.com/cpVw6dAimE
— Sports Sunday (@SportsSunday) October 14, 2017
The AIS Judging Panel gave the nod to Pearson ahead of Britteny Cox (winter sport); Jessica Fox (canoeing) and Sam Kerr (football).
Pearson was pleased to receive the award for Female Athlete of the Year.
“I would like to thank the AIS judging panel for their recognition and to also pay tribute to the other fantastic female athletes who were nominated – Britteny, Jessica and Sam – all remarkable performers in their own right.
“Celebrating success, after such a trying time has been enjoyable. Awards are not the reason we compete, but it is an honour to be recognised.
“I’m looking forward to the summer ahead, competing at my best and of course, competing in front of a home crowd at the Gold Coast 2018 Commonwealth Games.â€
