A Portager has taken home this year Manitoba Country Music Award as the Guitarist for the All Star Band of the Year.

Troy Flamand says he was honoured to even be nominated and see his name next to the other talented guitarists. He said, when the announcement was made saying he won, it was mindblowing.

"It truly meant a lot to me and like I had my mom and my family around there too and they were all super happy," notes Flamand. "It was truly a night to remember."

He says some friends of his also won awards, with Brad Moggie winning the specialty category for All Star Band of the Year, as well as Kendra Kay, who won the Fans Choice award. He mentions the community as a big factor to why there's a strong passion in Manitoba for country music.

"I'm very grateful to be a part of such an amazing community," says Flamand. "A lot of the artists and musicians we all kind of either cross paths on stage or filled in for one another, so it's great to have that close connection with such amazing people and musicians."

He adds the amount of support he's seen on social media has been spectacular to see. He says he's still enjoying the moment and soaking it all in.

"Like I said, the support system I have around home and surrounding area is very amazing and truly appreciate everything."