SIA 08: Dame Tanni Picks Up Contribution Prize

Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson was awarded the Virgin Atlantic Outstanding Contribution to British Sport Award at last night’s Sport Industry Awards 2008 to a standing ovation from the appreciative attendees.

In front of a packed house of industry executives and sport and entertainment celebrities, the recently retired Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson – the greatest Paralympian of all time with a staggering 11 gold medals – received her award from her compatriot and hero, former Welsh scrum half and arguably the greatest rugby player of all time, Gareth Edwards.

Following in the footsteps of last year’s winner David Beckham, Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson was presented with the Virgin Atlantic Outstanding Contribution to British Sport for her outstanding work both on and off the track in the development of the Paralympic movement.

Gareth Edwards led the tributes to Dame Tanni Grey-Thompson, commenting: ‘Ever since the first Paralympic Games was held 20 years ago, one figure in this country has been at the heart of  driving  Paralympic sport forward, both as a competitor and as a rabble-rousing administrator.

‘The fact that she is one of the best known names in all sport is testimony not just to her own ability, but to the many battles she has fought and won through her unfailing celtic tenacity about bringing credibility to disabled athletes and recognition for their undoubted talent.

‘You know you’ve made it, when all you need is just one name…Tanni.’