A Llanelli sports centre manager is one of only 14 in the UK to be recognised for his work by a leading training organisation.
Steve Owens was singled out by Icon Training and Active IQ from over 35,000 learners across the country spanning 20 years.
The council’s Actif Facilities Manager at Llanelli Leisure Centre was awarded the Inspirational Learner Award in a glittering ceremony in the Celtic Manor earlier this month.
Steve, aged 51, is a keen sports enthusiast and started his career at the centre as a lifeguard in 1984 and worked his way up through the ranks. In 2012 he completed a BA Hons Sport Management Degree with flying colours gaining a First Class Honours grade whilst juggling a full time career and bringing up a family.
Former HE lecturer Andy Evans said: “Steve was an excellent student and extremely hard working. Studying part-time for a degree over several years whilst working and looking after a family is incredibly tough, yet he was able to motivate and discipline himself to produce the highest standard of work and this is reflected in this award.”
Some of Steve’s past sporting achievements include running the London Marathon twice for charity as well as the Great North Run. In his earlier years Steve was vocalist and guitarist in local bands Kokomo and Seasons of Gold who supported many famous artists including Sir Cliff Richard and The Searchers.
The council’s senior sport and leisure manager, Carl Daniels said: “I am thrilled that Steve has received this recognition. He is so conscientious and committed and those that know him well will not be surprised at his outstanding achievement.”
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