The Wally Foreman Foundation has announced three athletes vying for selection for the Tokyo Olympics as its 2018 scholarship recipients, taking the Foundation past $150,000 in grant provisions in its first decade of operation.

First-time recipients Elyse Ainsworth (sailing) and Anton Zapelli (wheelchair shooting) have joined previous beneficiary and 2018 WAIS Athlete of the Year Matt Wearn (sailing) in receiving this year's Wally Foreman Foundation grants.

The trio's selection was announced at last night's WA Institute of Sport's Annual Awards function at the Pan Pacific Hotel in Perth on Thursday 15 November.

The Foundation has now issued 45 scholarships since 2008, with its alumni comprised of not only national champions (such as sprinter Jody Henry and open water swimmer Rhys Mainstone), but World Champions (such as cycling's Melissa Hoskins, Josie Tomic and Luke Durbridge), Olympic medallists (water polo's Emma Knox and equestrian's Sonja Johnson) and trailblazers (para-triathlete Brant Garvey).

The WFF aspires to continue the work of respected sports broadcaster and administrator Wally Foreman, who was a tireless advocate for WA athletes and coaches, before his death in 2006.

The Foundation, through its activities and the generous support of the community and bodies such as the Carbine Club of WA, WAIS and the West Coast Eagles, raises funds to support athletes and coaches not covered by existing scholarships in their pursuit of sporting excellence.

WFF Chair Glen Foreman said: "The presentation of scholarships is the most rewarding and exciting time of the year for the Wally Foreman Foundation, but this year in particular is special.

"This year marks a decade since the Foundation delivered its first scholarships and to have provided WA athletes and coaches with financial aid as substantial as $150,000 - and to then see the world class achievements of those we've assisted - makes us incredibly proud of the role we are playing.

"The Foundation and its supporters work throughout the year to be able to provide these scholarships and there is every chance we will see all three of this year's recipients in Tokyo in 2020.

"Matt, Elyse and Anton have proven they're capable of excellence on the world stage, but need a little support in achieving that, and that's exactly what the Wally Foreman Foundation exists for.

"It's an honour to present these athletes with 2018 Wally Foreman Foundation scholarships and we look forward to watching them show the world what they're capable of."

Ainsworth is one of two sailors aiming to qualify Australia for the Laser Radial class for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, with her outstanding work ethic, resilience and talent holding her in strong stead.

Wearn is one of two Australians vying for Tokyo selection and the Foundation's 2017 grant ensured he was able to attend an unplanned regatta, with the sailor retaining his national No.1 ranking and earning a silver medal at the World Championships.

Wearn was last night named the 2018 WAIS Athlete of the Year for his outstanding performance.

Wheelchair shooter Zapelli earlier this year qualified the Australian spot in his discipline for the 2020 Paralympic Games and must now earn selection to the team by retaining his AUS No.1 ranking.

The field of 2018 builds on the strength of last year's Wally Foreman Foundation scholarship cohort of Matt Richardson (cycling), Thomas McHugh (wheelchair basketball) and Wearn.

Richardson's application for assistance was focused on supporting his bid to join the Australian Cycling Team Podium Potential Academy in Adelaide - a select group of riders identified by the national body as having podium potential for the 2024 Olympic Games.

Richardson achieved that goal and this week departed for Adelaide, putting him in the best possible stead for a tilt at 2024.

The WFF's support enabled McHugh to purchase a new set of wheels and compete in the national league, assisting in his star's continued rapid rise.

McHugh, at just 16-years-old, has not only been earmarked for the Under-25 team to compete in future World Cups, but was this year a member of the extended senior Australian men's squad, indicating the high regard in which he is held.

Wearn, whose best ever year was aided by the Foundation, showed his pursuit of excellence was worthy of further support after he usurped reigning Olympic champion and compatriot Tom Burton as his country's top-ranked laser sailor, qualifying Australia's place in Tokyo.

Applications for the 2019 Wally Foreman Foundation scholarship will open around September.

For further information, please see wff.org.au.