Celebrating RAF Sportsman of the Year 2024: Mike Cutler

The 2024 RAF Sport Awards represented an opportunity to honour the finest athletic talent within the RAF Community, and this year’s RAF Sportsman of the Year award belonged to a truly extraordinary individual – Mike Cutler.

Since 2021, Cutler has been an unwavering cornerstone of the RAF Olympic Weightlifting Association (RAFOWA), epitomising leadership, athletic brilliance, and a dedication to fostering the sport of weightlifting within the RAF and beyond.

Cutler’s individual achievements speak volumes about his exceptional capabilities and resilience. Twice crowned the Inter-Service (IS) Best Male Athlete in 2021 and 2023, and securing RAF Championships titles in 2021, 2022, and 2024, his dominance in the sport is undeniable.

Perhaps most strikingly, in 2023, Cutler became the first male service athlete to qualify for the prestigious British Senior Championships, where he placed 4th—an incredible feat, finishing just 1kg shy of the bronze medal.

The year 2024 marked new heights in Cutler’s already illustrious career. As a dual British Master’s Champion, his victories earned him the honour of becoming the first aviator to represent Great Britain in weightlifting.

Competing on the European stage, Cutler secured a silver medal at the European Master’s Weightlifting Championships, a monumental achievement that qualified him for the World Championships in September 2024.

Cutler’s impact transcends personal accomplishments. As team captain and manager, he has led the RAF to back-to-back IS titles in 2022 and 2023, overcoming formidable challenges to achieve these victories.

His leadership extended to the UK Armed Forces (UKAF) team, where he captained them to victory in their inaugural competition. In 2024, he led the UKAF team in an elite four-way competition against the English, Welsh, and Scottish under-23 national teams, showcasing his strategic acumen and ability to inspire others.

Beyond competitions, Cutler’s contributions have been pivotal in shaping the future of weightlifting within the RAF. As a founding member of the RAFOWA committee, his vision and initiatives have created pathways for athletes to excel. Organising every RAF Championship and the first-ever IS competition, Cutler has been a driving force behind the sport’s growth at grassroots and elite levels.

His development camps and competitions have provided invaluable opportunities for aspiring athletes, while his mentorship ensures the sustained growth of the sport even in the face of challenges such as deployments.

Reflecting on his award, Mike Cutler said: “It was an incredible honour to be named RAF Sportsman of the Year, and I’m deeply grateful for the recognition. I’m privileged to be part of an amazing association, tirelessly working to create grassroots pathways into Olympic weightlifting and helping to inspire and support future talent across the military.

This award wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support I’ve received. I want to thank the RAF, RAFOWA, my coach Sgt Leighton James, my partner Sgt Rebecca Price, and everyone who has guided me along this journey.

“Finally, I’m incredibly thankful for the backing of the Central Fund and the Sports Lottery. Their support has been integral, not only to my success but to the continued growth and achievements of RAF Sports.”

The RAF Sport Awards 2024 highlighted not only the athletic prowess within the RAF but also the dedication of individuals who continuously strive to better themselves and support their teammates.

If you know of someone deserving a nomination for the 2025 awards, you can view the nomination criteria and information on how to put someone forward for an RAF Sport Award in AP3415 Leaflet 31, or you can contact 22gp-drs-info@mod.gov.uk with any further questions.