Gary Hargraves, CEO of Sheffield-based sports tech specialist Sport:80 has been named as one of this year’s Ones To Watch as part of The LDC Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders programme for 2021.

The programme, which is supported by The Times and now in its fourth year, celebrates the inspiring leaders behind some of the UK’s most successful and fast-growing medium-sized firms. 

Despite the challenges of the last 18 months, the Top 50 programme received a record number of nominations; more than 600, proving that ambition is alive and well. 

The Ones to Watch are the leaders that are destined for great things and are the driving force behind tomorrow’s mid-sized firms. They are growing businesses that are making a big impact on their customers and target markets and will be the nation’s principal job creators over the years to come.

Sport:80 offers the first technology platform built specifically for National Governing Bodies of Sport, wherever in the world they may be. By the end of this year, the Company we will have onboarded at least 23 National Governing Bodies since the start of 2020, including sports in the UK and US. 

“The last year has been an extremely positive one for Sport:80 with the total number of governing bodies worldwide with which we are working increasing significantly and the company experiencing year-on-year growth,” explains Gary. 

“There is a realistic prospect that our business could double in size in the coming years as we continue to develop our services and introduce new products to enable clients to capitalise on the power and value of technology. Our growth is a testament to the team we have built and their unwavering commitment and hard work.”

LDC’s John Garner adds: “The last 18 months have presented challenges that none of us could have foreseen, but despite everything, it’s fantastic to see that so many business leaders many have achieved some truly remarkable things. This year’s Ones to Watch group epitomises that fighting spirit and have truly impressed the judges with their stories of growth and ambition. Congratulations to all those featured, and we look forward to seeing their continued success and impact, and contribution the broader UK economy.”

Learn more about the Top 50 Most Ambitious Business Leaders programme for 2021.