Yushae DeSilva-Andrade and Jack Harvey were honoured as Bermuda’s best athletes at the 43rd Annual Government Sports Awards last night.

At a glittering ceremony organised by the Department of Sport and Recreation atthe Hamilton Princess & Beach Club, Yushae DeSilva-Andrade, was rewarded for her performances in boccia.

Swimmer Harvey was recognised for his exploits in the pool.

The 31-year-old DeSilva-Andrade clinched a silver medal at the World Boccia Cup in Portugal.

She also came close to becoming Bermuda’s first Paralympics medal-winner after finishing fourth in Paris.

“This achievement is not mine, it belongs to everyone who has supported me along this journey,” DeSilva-Andrade said in her acceptance speech.

“First and foremost, I want to thank my coach Larry Hunt for his guidance, patience and belief in me. Your dedication has pushed me to become a better athlete and a better person.

“To my mother, thank you for your continuing to support, and motivating me on and off the court. Thank you to my team for challenging me and making every practice and game an unforgettable experience.

“Sport is not just about individual performance, it’s about teamwork. I wouldn’t be here without you all.

“To my family, friends and supporters, thank you for your unwavering support, it has helped me every day.”

Harvey qualified for the 2024 Olympic Games in the 100 metres backstroke, where the 21-year-old went on to win his heat.

While his time of 55.78sec was not enough for him to make it into the semi-finals, his performance ensured that he finished 39th overall.

“I would like to thank Ben Smith and Shona Palmer, not for what you have done for me but for Bermuda swimming,” Harvey said.

“I would also like to thank everyone at the Bermuda Olympic Association and the Department of Sport and Recreation, not just for putting together an amazing event tonight, but for all your hard work all year round.”

In a night of dominance for swimmers, Elijah Daley and Katherine Wheddon picked up the best male and female junior accolades.

The two were part of Bermuda’s successful teams at the Carifta Aquatics Championships in Bahamas, as well as the Central American and Caribbean Swimming Championships in Mexico.

A full report will appear later today