AN OLYMPIC swimmer, whose dedication to his sport lost him a best friend, urged budding athletes to set goals and follow their dreams.
Double Olympian and Commonwealth Games gold medallist Chris Cook inspired students with his talk at the annual awards ceremony of Longfield Academy of Sport, Darlington.
North East-born and bred, Chris presented a host of awards to students at a glittering ceremony staged at the Dolphin Centre.
Also a director of Swim Buddies, he told an audience of staff, students and families: “I always wanted to be an Olympic swimmer but people from South Shields didn’t go to the Olympics.
“But it shouldn’t be about where you are from, it’s about where you set your targets. I missed my best friend’s birthday party because I was training for the National Championships. He said I was choosing swimming over friendship and that I would never get anywhere – we haven’t spoken in person since.”
He told students of the gruelling training regime that saw him in the pool at 4.30am every day.
“But my medals remind me of the sacrifices and they remind me of my best friend, who 11 years later, did get in touch by Facebook and wrote, ‘Cookie, congratulations on your gold medal; I always knew you could do it’.
“There is a magic when you follow your heart and dreams; somehow, suddenly, things can fall into place.”
Headteacher Susan Johnson said: “These young people receiving awards represent the best in what has been an excellent year.
“They take part in an extensive range of sports and learn many beneficial skills that help them become successful learners. Sport is a significant part of what we do at Longfield and this is why I am so proud of what they have achieved.”
Mrs Johnson also had high praise for assistant headteacher and director of sport Keith Gilbertson who is retiring after 27 years.
“It has been an absolute privilege to work with him,” she said. “His dedication and commitment have been exemplary and he leaves the PE department in a very strong position.”
Certificates, cups and trophies were awarded for achievements in sports including swimming, athletics, cross country, cricket, football, rugby, hockey, netball, skiing, dance, basketball, table tennis, tennis, cycling, boxing, water polo and golf.
There was also the Martin Gray Football Academy Awards and accolades for leadership, sporting excellence and effort.
The audience was also entertained by singer Sophie Simmons and a dance display team.