Jenny Gray MBE (Reading Royals SC) and Sally Anne Minty-Gravett MBE (Jersey Long Distance SC) are recognised in the Birthday Honours 2016.
Jenny Gray MBE
Synchronised Swimming’s Jenny Gray has been recognised for her services to the sport with an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list 2016.
The world-renowned synchro expert is one of four members of the swimming community to be included in the list, which was announced as part of the Queen’s 90th birthday celebrations.
"I was shocked, totally thrilled and absolutely honoured" - Jenny Gray MBE
“When I found out I had received an MBE I was shocked, totally thrilled and absolutely honoured”, said Jenny.
“This is the 52nd year I have been involved in synchronised swimming. It has taken me all around the world, first as a competitor, then as a coach, and more recently as a judge. I would like to thank everyone who has helped and supported me to be a part of this great sport.”
After competing in the inaugural FINA World Championships in Belgrade in 1973 as part of the earliest Great Britain Synchronised Swimming team, Jenny has devoted her life to teaching, coaching and developing synchronised swimming on an international scale.
As well as officiating at events and consulting on all areas of the sport, Jenny still coaches and runs holidays schools for 1,000 of swimmers. Olivia Federici and Katie Clark, who have been at this summer’s Olympic Games, were both coached by Jenny.
“It’s lovely to see Olivia and Katie selected to go to Rio. I coached both of them for many years and they are both extremely talented. I wish them both the best of luck for the Games.”
Adam Paker, CEO of the ASA, said: “Jenny is highly respected by coaches, swimmers and officials across the world. Without her input and support over the years, the quality of synchronised swimming simply would not be at the level it is today.”
Sally Minty-Gravett MBE
Sally Minty Gravett has been given an MBE for her work teaching thousands of youngsters to swim.
She has been swimming at Harve De Pas since she was a child.
President of the Jersey Long Distance Swimming Club, she has swum the Channel five times in five decades.
She said she was 'delighted' when she heard the news of the MBE.
Sally Said “[I was] overwhelmed! I got the phone call on the 21st April by the governor and was just bowled over; very, very excited. And the first thing I thought of was my mum and dad - who are no longer here - and very proud for them and just sad that they're not here to see this.”
