READING’s Katie Clark and her synchronised swimming partner Olivia Federici have been recognised at the ASA Aquatics Awards 2016 for their achievements during the past 12 months.

The duo won the ASA Performance Athletes of the Year award for Synchronised Swimming after returning to the water after a period in retirement, then qualifying for and competing at the Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

The Award was presented by 2016 Paralympic S6 50m Butterfly Champion, Ellie Robinson, and 2016 Olympic diving bronze medallist Daniel Goodfellow.

After receiving the award, Reading Royals’ member Clark, said: “The journey to Rio was great. We have had so much support from Karen Thorpe and Katie our coach, and the whole journey along was fantastic.”

Federici added: “Synchro is such an incredible sport, and it is really important that we keep supporting that.”

The event was held at Birmingham University’s Great Hall and hosted by the national governing body for swimming, the ASA.

Jane Nickerson, interim Chief Executive of the ASA, said: “We have many fantastic people involved in our sport and the annual Aquatics Awards are our opportunity to recognise the great contribution that is made every day by our volunteers, teachers, coaches and partners.

“The Awards is an opportunity to celebrate the many achievements within the aquatics community. From the individuals who have overcome personal obstacles to learn how to swim, to those who represent club and country.

“All our nominees are great ambassadors for our sport and it is wonderful to be able to recognise their achievements.”