Limavady’s Heather earns spot among top finalists in sport awards

Inspirational Limavady gym owner Heather Nicholl has been announced as a finalist in the Health and Fitness Personal Trainer of the Year category at the 2026 Local Women Sport Awards.

Now in its fourth year, the awards are the only all-sport ceremony on the island of Ireland dedicated entirely to celebrating women’s achievements.

Heather said she was thrilled to receive the nomination and is eagerly anticipating the awards ceremony, which will take place on Saturday, April 11 at the Europa Hotel, where the winners will be revealed.

She shared her pride and gratitude at being recognised in such a prestigious category:

“It has been such an honour to be shortlisted as a finalist for Health and Fitness PT of the Year in this year’s Local Women Sport Awards.

“I have had the chance to coach so many amazing people, from young girls in my local community through the violences against women and girls programme, to menopausal ladies looking to build strength and grow in confidence.

“I also had the privilege to coach a few clients through life changing illnesses, not only physically, but emotionally, adapting their training as and when required.

“To see them grow in confidence, building their resilience each step of the way even on the toughest of days made me so proud.

“What a job I have! Thank you to you all for believing in me!”

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Heather Nicholl founded her health and fitness business, Ella Mor, with a clear philosophy, encouraging her clients to prioritise their fitness and wellbeing as a foundation for a healthier life.

Her small-group training programmes are tailored to suit all abilities, offering everything from high-intensity sessions to more relaxed classes focused on mobility and movement.

With over 20 years’ experience in the fitness industry, Heather brings a wealth of knowledge to her work.

She specialises in female health and fitness, incorporating an understanding of physiology, natural cycles, perimenopause and menopause into her training approach.

Based at Aghanaloo Industrial Estate in Limavady, Heather’s gym also introduced Hyrox training at the birth of its popularity and she has personally competed in Hyrox events in Ireland and the UK.

A proud native of the Binevenagh area, Heather describes herself as a country girl at heart and as a qualified tour guide, she utilises her skills to inspire clients to embrace the outdoors.

Her passion for nature is reflected in the wellbeing walks and hikes she leads, showcasing the scenic landscape around Limavady.

Having grown up on a farm at the foot of Binevenagh, she offers a unique, personal insight into the local environment.

The Local Women Sport Awards are proud of their ambassador, Olympic legend, Lady Mary Peters and of being the largest celebration of women in sport across the island of Ireland.

Recognising achievement at every level, from grassroots to elite, the awards, which are sponsored by Shandon Hotel, span a wide range of sporting disciplines.

The 2026 judging panel featured Martin Sherlock (Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie), Gillian Hetherington (Mary Peters Trust), Rosemary Allister (Hockey), Patricia McCullough (NI Women’s Football Association), Zoe Watson (Belfast Live) and Richard Bullick (Rugby).

The ceremony will take place on Saturday, April 11 and will be hosted by UTV sports personality, golfer and hockey player Ruth Gorman, promising an engaging evening celebrating women in sport.