GLOBAL Sports Feature / Reportage Portfolio of the Year
1st Place
Patrick Smith
“Patrick Smith’s in-depth visual storytelling has earned him the Getty Images Global Sport Feature/Reportage Portfolio of the Year award for his seven-month project chronicling the inspiring journey of the Agar family. For 15 years, Jeff and his son Johnny have redefined the limits of endurance sports, turning Ironman triathlons into a testament of resilience and determination. Johnny, who lives with cerebral palsy, relies on his father to support him through every step of the journey. After four prior attempts, Team Agar triumphed in 2022 by completing a full Ironman—a staggering 140.6 miles—in just under 17 hours. Their remarkable comeback continued with an invitation to the IRONMAN World Championship in Kona, where they reaffirmed that their journey transcends the finish line. Even in the face of challenges, Jeff and Johnny’s story highlights the power of family bonds and the importance of championing those navigating disabilities, offering a heartfelt reminder that the journey is just as valuable as the destination. Smith’s images capture this essence, showcasing the family’s deep bond and perseverance.”
‘Limitless - Team Agar’
For 15 years, Jeff and his son Johnny Agar have been pushing the limits of endurance sports including Ironman triathlons. Their athletic accomplishments have been especially noteworthy considering that Johnny lives with cerebral palsy, a muscle disorder which necessitates assistance with his daily activities. When racing, Johnny receives full support by his sixty-one-year-old father to pull, haul and push him on course. In 2022, after five unsuccessful attempts, Team Agar completed a full Ironman - 140.6 miles of swimming, cycling, and running - within a 17-hour time limit. Nearly a decade after a failed attempt at the 2016 Ironman World Championship Triathlon in Kona, Team Agar was invited back to Hawaii to compete in this year's VinFast Ironman World Championship. Although the father-son-duo came up short of their dream of completing one of the most challenging triathlons in the world, they say their journey has never been solely about reaching the finish line. Their experiences have emphasized their commitment to overcoming challenges together as a family and connecting with those navigating disabilities and the struggles of everyday life.
2nd Place
Michael Steele
‘Keely Hodgkinson's Road to Gold’
Keely Hodgkinson is a 22 year old 800m runner. At the age of 19, she won silver at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, breaking the British record set by Kelly Holmes. She added the European indoor and outdoor titles and claimed silver in the World Championships and Commonwealth Games in 2022. Coached by Trevor Painter this story follows her from January 2022 towards the summer Olympics in Paris 2024.
3rd Place
Ryan Pierse
‘Over the Crossbar’
Aerial views of football goals in the London area. Football is currently England's most popular team sport with over two million people playing at least twice per month.
