Jacqui Hockaday wins Thoroughbred Racing SA Sport Award
Giving a nod to the talents of sporting individuals, teams, clubs, coaches or volunteers who have significantly raised the profile of a particular sport in regional South Australia, is the Thoroughbred Racing SA Sport Award.
Against some pretty stiff competition, Jacqui Hockaday was chosen to receive the award earlier this month at the Brand SA Awards.
In the running against the Whyalla Hockey association, and the Boston Sporting association, you wouldn’t expect the work of just one kiteboader could stack up against entire associations.
But Jacqui isn’t just a kiteboarder, she’s spent the past several years working tirelessly to promote the sport of kiteboarding, and racked up some pretty impressive results to match.
“Growing up as a sport lover as a kid has made the love of sport grow stronger within myself each and every year. I thrive on the sporting atmosphere and the competitive side of it as well." Tells Jacqui; "I was nominated for this award for my love, commitment and also results I’ve achieved with both Kiteboarding and Stand-up Paddleboarding.”
Mentoring at her local high school, she spoke about her life growing up as an athlete. Sharing stories about setbacks, making commitments and setting goals, students were given a valuable insight into the life of an up-and-coming professional kiteboarder (and stand up paddler). Stemming from this mentoring, Jacqui was invited to help facilitate Youth Programs and Leadership Camps around South Australia, which she’ll continue to do in the future.
“Mentoring programs is something I am very passionate about and strive to promote on the Eyre Peninsula. Through my experiences and successes I can convey positive messages to the youth of the region so they too can live a positive and prosperous life. Showing the importance of learning from mistakes and turning negatives into positives is a great attribute for any young person.?”
As for her kiteboarding results, well, they speak for themselves really. You're looking at 3x Stand-up Paddleboarding State Champion, and 7x Kiteboarding/Kitesurfing State Champion. Not to mention the fact she came third in the Open Men's kitesurfing division in 2013.
Yep, you read right, third in the mens division! Not bad for a girl who only a couple of years ago, had dreams of starting her own kite shop and teaching some kids a few lessons about growing up.
Congratulations Jacqui Hockaday for winning the Thoroughbred Racing SA Sport Award!
Photo: Supplied
Hallett Coce, SA
