The AJSBA would like to thank everyone involved in the Rider and Sportsperson of the Year process. It was a tough decision with a number of members receiving multiple worthwhile nominations.

Without further ado, the AJSBA would like to congratulate our 2013-14 Ride of the Year – Joel Barry. Joel received a number of nominations commending his conduct as a racer. Noted as a gracious winner as well as a noble runner-up, his leverl of professionalism for such a young racer was praised. Joel and his family’s commitment to riding hard in each and every moto. Mentioned in almost  all of his nominations was the great achievement of winning the Pro Ski class in this year’s AJSBA National Tour. Touted as the first Australia to challenge this class in years, we look forward to supporting and following Joel throughout his future in the sport.

The Sportsperson of the Year nominations were instructed to recognise someone who has performed above and beyond the call of duty. The AJSBA is very happy to award the 2013-14 Sportsperson of the Year honour  to Dean Jeffries of the NSWPWC. Dean was recognised  for his willingness to bend over backwards to make events happen, being the first person in the water in the morning and the last out in the afternoon.

The nominators wanted to thank his wife and children for letting him dedicate so much time to supporting the club, showing up every week despite note being there to race. Dean’s kindness and generosity meant he was awarded the NSWPWC’s Sportsperson Cup and the AJSBA is pleased to reiterate this.

Both winners will receive 12 months AJSBA competition membership in recognition of their efforts.

Honourable mentions must go to others with multiple nominations. Gavin Hughes was not just for his achievements and commitment during the AJSBA National Tour, Justin Belczowski and Tessa Phipps also received nominations applauding their efforts to build the sport and bring back the national tour. Nominations also included Peter Hunter and Michael Richards. Other nominees for Rider of the Year included Wessam Malek for his sportsmanship, Clinton Mihala for his commitment, James Masterton for his support of other riders and Brendan Boyd for his consistent results and professionalism. The AJSBA is honoured to be associated with you all and looks forward to working together to further build this great sport.