Who received the Helen Rollason award after the Southport attack?

Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe received the Helen Rollason award for their achievements following the tragic Southport attack.

What was Rory McIlroy's reaction to the award recipients?

Rory McIlroy became emotional and praised the fathers as 'absolute heroes' for their resilience and efforts to create lasting legacies.

How are Alice, Elsie, and Bebe remembered after the Southport attack?

Their fathers, Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe, have established charitable projects and raised funds in their memory, including running the 2025 London Marathon.

Home / Sports / McIlroy's Tears for Southport Attack Heroes

McIlroy's Tears for Southport Attack Heroes

19 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Two fathers honored for achievements after immense loss.
Daughters tragically died in the 2024 Southport attack.
McIlroy moved to tears, calling fathers 'absolute heroes'.

McIlroy's Tears for Southport Attack Heroes

Golfer Rory McIlroy was visibly moved at the Sports Personality of the Year ceremony, paying heartfelt tribute to the recipients of the Helen Rollason award. The award recognizes outstanding achievement in the face of adversity. This year's honorees, Sergio Aguiar and David Stancombe, are fathers whose daughters, Alice, Elsie, and Bebe, were tragically killed in the 2024 Southport attack.

In the wake of their devastating loss, Sergio and David have established lasting legacies through their respective projects: Alice's WonderDance, Elsie's Story, and Bebe's Hive. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, they participated in the 2025 London Marathon to raise funds for a new playground at their daughters' school. Their efforts were recognized with the Helen Rollason award on Thursday night.

McIlroy, sharing his personal connection as a father, expressed deep admiration, calling Aguiar and Stancombe 'absolute heroes'. The emotional moment resonated with the audience, highlighting the profound impact of their strength and dedication in honoring their daughters' memories.