Nicole Hill, who is a member of the Fylde Coast Rhythmic Gymnastics Club, has collected the Rhythmic Athlete of the Year award, while her coach Ana Blackburn landed the Rhythmic Coach of the Year prize.

A Lancashire gymnast and her coach have landed a top prize at the British Gymnastics Performance Partnership Awards.

Nicole Hill, who is a member of the Fylde Coast Rhythmic Gymnastics Club, has collected the Rhythmic Athlete of the Year award, while her coach Ana Blackburn landed the Rhythmic Coach of the Year prize.

The Performance Partnership awards champion the stories of gymnasts and coaches who have showcased inspiring teamwork and partnerships, whilst making outstanding contributions to their discipline, impacting their team and leaving a lasting impression on our sport.

Talking about the 2026 awards Dave Hart, Performance Director at British Gymnastics said: “We have so many wonderful examples of high-performance gymnasts, coaches and clubs working together to help us achieve incredible results and inspiring moments. We have an international presence as GBR because of our high-performance community, and I feel privileged to be part of seeing the hard work come together on a world-stage.

“The 2026 award winners are truly deserving of the accolade, and it is brilliant to see them achieve further success through this recognition. Whilst acknowledging this, I want to extend the celebration to those who have been part of the journey for these teams and individuals who don’t necessarily have a light shone on all their hard work and dedication but should feel just as much a part of the success. It takes our community of people to produce our performances – thank you all for what you do.”

Throughout 2025, Nicole demonstrated significant progression on both the national and international stage.

She began the year with two top-eight finishes at international competitions, setting a strong foundation for the season.

This progress was recognised with selection for her first Senior major championships, where her commitment and work ethic at preparation camps stood out.

The season concluded with further success as Nicole secured two British titles over the summer, reflecting her consistency, confidence and growing presence as a senior rhythmic gymnast.

Central to this progress is the strength of her partnership with Ana. The way they work together, openly, collaboratively and with mutual respect, has been a defining feature of their success.

Their shared ability to recognise when support is needed, adapt to challenges and continually seek opportunities for development is both effective and inspirational.

Commenting on winning the award, Ana said: “We are honoured and incredibly proud to receive the British Gymnastics Rhythmic Performance Partnership Award. This recognition reflects more than just performance -it represents teamwork, trust, passion, perseverance and the dedication we bring every single day.

“Behind every strong performance is an even stronger partnership, and I’m so grateful to stand alongside Nicole as we continue striving for excellence together. This award celebrates not just what we do but how we do it – united in commitment, driven by passion and stronger together.”

The 2026 British Gymnastics Awards recognise exceptional people and organisations that help keep gymnastics enjoyable, safe, and open to everyone, making a positive contribution to individuals, local communities, and wider society. Visit British Gymnastics Awards for more information.