Thirty-eight H&F athletes will benefit from a £24,000 boost to support their sporting careers.
The funding from the GLL Sport Foundation was recently announced at an awards ceremony at the Novotel hotel in Hammersmith.
It will help cover training costs, equipment and access to local facilities.
For young taekwondo champion Ivaan Chakraborty, meeting Mayor Cllr Sharon Holder was almost as thrilling as winning his latest gold medals.
The eight-year-old recently claimed three golds at the London Poomsae Championships, which add to his growing collection from national competitions.
"We are really happy that Ivaan has a natural talent for taekwondo and proud of his achievements," said his parents.
Ivaan started his martial arts journey at only five years old. Now a blue belt, Ivaan has progressed rapidly through the ranks with his instructor predicting he could achieve black belt by age 10.
"He was very excited to receive the GLL foundation award and we are sure it will inspire him to more great accomplishments," said his parents. "A big thank you for all your help and support!"
"Your support means more than words can express"
All funding beneficiaries will have access to more than 250 sport and leisure facilities across the UK operated by GLL under its Better brand. These include Phoenix Fitness Centre and Janet Adegoke Swimming Pool in Shepherds Bush.
For many athletes, the funding represents a lifeline that keeps sporting dreams alive.
Athletics competitor Angelita Broadbelt spoke about the positive impact on her sporting journey: "[The support] provides not only financial assistance but also encouragement and confidence to pursue my goals."
She added: "Thank you for believing in me and investing in my success – your support means more than words can express."
Marathon runner Patrick Roddy explained how the practical support fits around his busy life: "This helps alleviate some of the financial pressures I have to pursue my sport. Having my pick of centres makes it much easier to fit in my gym work."
The investment paid dividends quickly. Shortly after receiving his award, Patrick placed 4th in the masses and 27th overall at the London Marathon with a time of 2:18:08.
For tennis player Harriet Louise Poppy Graham, the support extends beyond her main sport. "I've been able to use the swimming facilities to build my strength, fitness, and recovery," she said. "I can train properly without worrying about costs."
Mayor Cllr Sharon Holder joined athletes to celebrate their achievements at the ceremony. She said:
I'm proud to see 38 H&F athletes getting the support they need to pursue their sporting dreams. Sport is such an important part of our borough's cultural fabric – from our three major football clubs to grassroots athletes such as Munirah and Angelita.
Giving residents every opportunity to thrive in the sports they're passionate about is part of our work to make H&F stronger, safer and kinder."
