Peter Kennaugh MBE has been confirmed as the guest of honour for the Isle of Man Sports Awards event in June.

The annual ceremony sees the achievements of the island’s top athletes, teams and coaches recognised in front of sports fans, with 11 awards up for grabs.

As a professional cyclist, Kennaugh rode at the highest level for nine years and won a gold medal at the 2012 Olympic Games in London, becoming the first Manxman in 100 years to do so.

The 31-year-old two-time British National Road Race champion, who retired from cycling in 2019, said: ’It’s an honour to be part of this year’s Isle of Man Sports Awards. I am really looking forward to seeing young Manx talent recognised and acknowledged for their hard work and achievements.’

The celebration of sport was originally scheduled to be staged at the Villa Marina last month but was delayed because of coronavirus restrictions. It will now be held on Wednesday, June 2.

Dr Alex Allinson MHK, Minister for Education and Sport, said: ’I am delighted Peter has accepted our invitation and I am sure everyone who attends will learn from his sporting journey, and take inspiration from it.’

The shortlist for the 2020 Isle of Man Sports Awards, sponsored by Microgaming Play It Forward, was announced in February and the event will reflect the exceptional challenges faced by many in 2020 while shining a light on sport’s unsung heroes.

During the evening, the Isle of Man Sports Aid scholarships for 2021-22 will also be presented to 51 recipients. Each scholarship provides a combination of financial support towards travel and equipment plus access to services at the Isle of Man Sport Institute.

Kennaugh was a recipient of Sport Aid support at the start of his sporting journey as well as a winner of the Sportsman of the Year title in 2012 and 2014.