Best and Stockdale among Belfast Telegraph Sports Awards winners

Rory Best and Jacob Stockdale were among those to pick up awards at the annual Belfast Telegraph Sports Awards on Monday evening. Ulster and Ireland captain, Rory Best, received a special recognition award, while Jacob Stockdale was named the Malcolm Brodie Player of the Year for the second consecutive year. There was no shortage of triumphs to celebrate at the glittering Waterfront Hall event, and it was four-time World Superbike champion Jonathan Rea, who was named Sports Star of the Year for the second time. Motorcycling legend William Dunlop was posthumously inducted into the Hall of Fame, taking his place alongside legends of Northern Ireland sport. As brother Michael walked up to collect the award, William received a standing ovation. Jim Gracey, Group Sports Editor at the Belfast Telegraph, paid tribute to all the winners and finalists: “The Sports Awards was a truly uplifting night as we paid tribute to some of the most talented and dedicated in Northern Ireland Sport, marking a year which was so significant for sports played both here and much further afield. “We had exceptionally strong competition in some of the categories and everyone who was shortlisted can be very proud of their achievements. “In addition to our nominees I’d like to thank all our guests and presenters, our sponsors, and everyone who helped to make it an unforgettable evening.”