Congratulations to Erika Fairweather (Neptune) and Lars Humer (Swim Dunedin) who have today been announced as finalists for the 61st ISPS Handa Halberg Awards!

Erika has been announced as a finalist for the elusive Sportswoman of the Year award at the 61st ISPS Handa Halberg Awards. 2023 was a whirlwind year for Fairweather, earning a bronze medal at the World Championships, becoming the fifth woman to break the 4 minute barrier in the 400m Freestyle, breaking a World Cup Record, and picking up a series of medals including an undefeated streak in the 400m Freestyle at the Swimming World Cup. The Sportswoman of the Year award category also features last year’s Supreme Winner Zoi Sadowski-Synnott, along with reigning motorcross world champion Courtney Duncan, track cyclist Ellesse Andrews, and world champion canoeist Dame Lisa Carrington.

Lars has been announced as a finalist for the prestigious Coach of the Year award at the 61st ISPS Handa Halberg Awards. After guiding Fairweather to break the elusive 4 minute barrier and secure the bronze medal in the 400m Freestyle at the 2023 World Championships, plus getting an additional three of his athletes onto the world championships roster, it has been an incredible year for the Dunedin coach. Humer is nominated amongst strong contingent of coaches, including: All Blacks coach Ian Foster, Black Ferns sevens coach Cory Sweeney, Dame Lisa Carrington’s long-term mentor Gordon Walker, and snowboard guru Sean Thompson.

The winners will be announced at the Halberg Awards ceremony on Wednesday, 14th February in Auckland. 

Click here to read the full list of finalists

Article added: Wednesday 10 January 2024