(Image: Supplied)
A rising County Durham rowing star is celebrating a series of impressive results after making his mark in regional and national competitions, earning praise from his college for his dedication and sporting achievements.
Hayden MacDonald, a Level 3 Sports Coaching student at New College Durham, is gaining recognition for his rapid progress in rowing, a sport he has pursued for less than four years with Sunderland Rowing Club.
Despite his short time in the sport, Hayden has already achieved a string of successes this season.
He finished second overall and first in the club category at Nottingham Regatta, and took third place in the Men's Under-21 Single Sculls at the British Rowing Olympic Pathway competition.
Mr MacDonald said: "Achieving these medals has motivated me to push myself further and compete at an even higher standard."
He also placed third in the Men's Single Sculls at the Northern Beach Sprints Cup, continuing his steady rise in the sport.
His achievements have earned him the Sports Newcastle Unsung Hero Award, presented at a ceremony in June at Kingston Park Stadium.
The award recognises his dedication, perseverance, and contribution to sport.
Charlotte Winnard, sport lecturer at New College Durham, said: "Hayden's achievements are a fantastic example of what can be accomplished through dedication, hard work and a genuine passion for sport.
"To have reached this level within four years of taking up rowing is a truly remarkable achievement.
"He consistently demonstrates the commitment, professionalism and determination that we encourage across all of our sport programmes.
"Everyone within the New College Durham sports team is incredibly proud of what Hayden has achieved so far, and we are excited to see where his journey takes him next."
Mr MacDonald is now aiming to qualify for the Henley Regatta, one of the most prestigious events in the rowing calendar.