David Esworthy was honoured in a way accorded to only a special few at a Township meeting: a standing ovation.

Esworthy was lauded by council and an almost-full public gallery on Jan. 23 in recognition for his induction into the B.C  Sports Hall of Fame.

The accolade recognizes the 83-year-old as a builder of equestrian sports in the province.

The 2012 class of inductees will be inducted on Sept. 20. The final list was chosen by a selection committee comprised of members of the BC Sports Hall of Fame board of trustees, the media and the sport community.

The committee sifted through a list of more than 120 nominees.

Esworthy has served as a rider, judge, steward, horse show organizer, horse show chair and industry advisor.

鈥淭he award was a complete surprise and farthest from my thoughts,鈥� he told council and the audience.

鈥淚鈥檓 still quite a bit overwhelmed by it.鈥�

The eight councillors left their desks to follow Esworthy to the podium and shake Esworthy鈥檚 hand.