Councillors celebrate Olympic canoeist's achievement
A Stone Olympian’s achievements are to be recognised by community leaders who have hailed him one of the top canoeists in the world.
Adam Burgess narrowly missed out on a medal at the Tokyo 2020 Games, finishing just 0.16 seconds behind bronze-winning Sideris Tasiadis of Germany and 5.61 seconds behind winner Benjamin Savsek of Slovenia in the canoe slalom finals.
But Stone Town Council members commended his efforts at their meeting on Tuesday, as well as the continuing success of Stafford and Stone Canoe Club which has a history of sending top paddlers to the Olympic Games.
Other Olympians have included Lizzie Neave, who competed in the London 2012 Games, and Joe Clarke who scooped a gold medal in Rio in 2016.
Councillors are planning to send Adam a letter of congratulations signed by the Town Mayor and invite him to their annual civic dinner.
Councillor Jill Hood said: “He did really well – he was only pipped by a splash. I thought it was appropriate we recognise Adam and acknowledge the excellent standard of Stafford and Stone Canoe Club.”
Councillor Jim Davies said: "Our canoe club in this town is a fantastic organisation.
"Their achievements are certainly of world standard and they have brought a tremendous amount of honour to this town.
"Although Adam hasn’t come back with a bit of hardware on this occasion it would be right for the council to send a congratulatory letter."
Mayor Jonathan Powell said: “He is fourth in the world – it is absolutely phenomenal.”
