MERLEY-based shooter Richard Bray has been recognised for his efforts after being named rifle pathway athlete of the year at the British Shooting Awards in November.

The Paralympic hopeful received recognition for a productive 2023, which included two gold medals at the Swansea Para Sport Festival in July.

Bray has had extra back support since being reclassified at the International Shooting Competition of Hannover in May.

“The British Shooting Awards afforded an excellent opportunity for our community to celebrate the successes of the last 12 months.” Said Steven Seligmann, British Shooting’s Performance Director.

 “We're all very proud of the athletes, coaches and practitioners in British Shooting. Many congratulations to those who claimed awards this year. No doubt they will continue to help inspire the British Shooting community as we now head towards the Games in Paris next year. 

“Thank you to everyone who helped to make the awards a success, and to our sponsors, without whom the event would not have been possible.”

Originally from Wales and now based in Wimborne, Bray has also been selected on the Welsh Development Pathway.

Bray has targeted a Paralympic debut at the 2028 games in Los Angeles, United States of America.