Double Olympic rowing champions Caroline and Georgina Evers-Swindell have been awarded the Lonsdale Cup for 2008 by the New Zealand Olympic Committee.
The committee selected the Evers-Swindells after an outstanding campaign at the 2008 Beijing Games, where they won gold again in their event.
The twins, who are about to enjoy their first summer holiday in 15 years, say they are honoured by the award.
They join a prestigious group of only six New Zealand athletes who have successfully defended an Olympic gold medal.
