Ian Ackert was named the 2024 Athlete of the Year on Thursday night in a ceremony at the Orillia Waterfront Centre.
Though Ackert couldn’t attend the ceremony in person as he is currently training in Barcelona, the 19-year-old Severn Township resident delivered a heartfelt virtual message, expressing gratitude to his supporters and reflecting on the significance of the award.
“Thank you to everyone who came out tonight to celebrate this award, and sorry that I wasn’t there,” Ackert said in his virtual address. “I’ve just been preparing for my upcoming mountain bike season with my team. We’ve been really busy the last couple days just preparing the bikes, making sure everything is dialed in before everyone goes their separate ways for a few months before the first World Cup.”
Ackert was especially appreciative of Nathan Brown, who nominated him for the award.
“It really means a lot coming from him. He’s been there from Day 1, whether it’s the behind-the-scenes support or in-person," Ackert shared.
He also thanked the Orillia Sports Council for their continuous support of local athletes and gave special mention to chairperson Roy Micks for delivering the exciting news of his win.
Additionally, Ackert expressed gratitude to Orillia Mayor Don McIsaac, as well as his parents, girlfriend, and their families for their unwavering support.
McIsaac praised Ackert’s "remarkable" dedication and achievement.
“Ian has demonstrated great teamwork in addition to great cycling skills,” McIsaac noted. “We are very proud of him.”
Ackert’s journey to the top of the cycling world in 2024 was nothing short of extraordinary. He secured the Canadian National Elite Men’s Cyclocross title and the Pan American Men’s Cyclocross Championship, repeating his remarkable feats from 2023.
Ackert also earned a podium finish with a third-place showing at the World Championship Mountain Bike event in Scotland.
His contributions to the sport extend beyond his impressive racing career. Ackert volunteers on projects encouraging youth participation in cycling and collaborates with Ontario Cycling and Cycling Canada to support national programs.
He also leads training camps across Canada and Europe during the off-season, helping young athletes develop foundational skills and confidence.
Ackert joins an elite group of international cycling champions from Orillia who have won the Athlete of the Year Award in recent years. He follows Isabella Holmgren, the 2023 recipient, and her brother, Gunnar Holmgren, who was honoured in 2021. All three grew up training at Hardwood Ski and Bike, contributing to Canada’s growing reputation in a sport traditionally dominated by European athletes.
“I saw a few of my mentors get it the last few years," Ackert said, reflecting on his achievement of being named Athlete of the Year. "So to receive an award like this is a pretty special thing. It means a lot to me.”