"Giving young people, particularly those with special needs, a sporting chance."

The award has been initiated by the sports based charity and club, The Lord's Taverners as part of their programme to help and encourage young people with special needs to participate in sporting and recreational activity - giving these young people "a sporting chance".

The winner of this award is not necessarily a recognised winner in their chosen game but is someone who plays in the right spirit, who may well have to overcome personal challenges and whose positive attitude and determination reflects in their sporting endeavours.

THE LORD'S TAVERNERS SPORTS ENDEAVOUR AWARD WINNER 2009 is

Ramon Hansford from Dorset

Ramon has been committed to boccia for the last 4 years. At first he did not do so well but has made a huge effort to practice and learn the rules. His skill has increased a huge amount. He has for the first time this year qualified for the Great Brittain championships which is a huge achievement for him.

Ramon is always enthusiastic and has a great sense of fun and humour which makes him a great role model for other younger players at the school.

He is very competitive and always expects the best from himself. He is always looking for ways to increase the funding available to support his sport.

Ramon deserves this award as each day he battles with his own physical condition but does so with a smile and a sense of humour which makes him a joy to be around. He successfully carries this determination and infectious humour and good will into his boccia playing. His determination to succeed and learn new skills alongside his great personality makes him a well deserved winner of this award.