Swapping the cold Stratford riverbank for the smart surroundings of @Sohoplace theatre in London, Stratford upon Avon Boat Club’s Head Adaptive Coach Mark Dewdney found himself the recipient of the Variety Disability Sports ‘Unsung Hero’ Award for his selfless contribution to local, regional, national and international adaptive rowing, both as a coach and
mentor over eighteen years. The award is organised by Variety, the children’s charity and celebrates the achievements of disabled sports volunteers and athletes
Stratford’s own adaptive squad has grown to some twenty athletes with the recent positive addition of several junior rowers. Mark commented, “Adaptive rowing is very volunteer led with the need for a whole team of helpers to assist the adaptive athlete to boat, buddy row, provide safety launch cover, 
bank-based supervision and coaching. This doesn’t just ‘happen’: it takes a lot of planning. Each person has different capabilities and we all work together to find the best way to adapt the boat, equipment and training protocols to meet the individual athlete’s specific needs. The award is recognition of this great team effort. Access to disability sport is a great thing for so many, physically and mentally contributing to their overall
wellbeing”
Commenting further, Paul Stanton, President of Stratford upon Avon Boat Club said, “Mark’s well-deserved award not only brings kudos to Mark himself but also to the Club. Through Mark’s efforts and those of his adaptive squad, the Club have high hopes of some 
athletes achieving possible Paralympic standard in addition to those enjoying adaptive rowing for competitive as well recreational pleasure. We are very proud of Mark’s achievements”
Also receiving an award this week at the Adaptive Squad’s Christmas Dinner
was Hattie Throssell, Stratford’s longest serving adaptive athlete. Commenting on Hattie’s award, Mark said, “The Club’s award for ‘Rowing Despite Adversity’ isn’t given lightly but the President and I were of one mind in the choice as Hattie’s true grit, determination and sheer ‘fight’ is humbling to see and an example to us all: a well deserved recipient!”
For media coverage, see Evesham Journal online https://www.eveshamjournal.co.uk/news/pershore/24765041.adaptive-rowing-coach-named-variety-disabilities–unsung-hero and Stratford Observer online https://www.stratfordobserver.co.uk/sport/rowing-stratford-boat-clubs-head-adaptive-coach-dewdney-wins-prestigious-unsung-hero-award and also back sports page https://www.stratfordobserver.co.uk/editions/view/?/Stratford/2024/12/06&pages=24