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James Shane proudly displays his winner's trophy

HAVING reigned in Europe three years ago, James Shane hopes to rule the world in 2008.

Basildon AC 18-year-old Shane, a student at Billericay's Mayflower School, collected the Young Personality of the Year prize at our awards and said: "I was shocked when I was announced the winner.

"When I saw the calibre of people I was up against I certainly didn't expect to be the winner.

"I'd like to pay tribute to to my parents, friends and Basildon AC colleagues who've supported me so well."

Shane has achieved huge success in cross-country and on the track, but admits that he's now concentrating on the latter.

"This season I'm using cross-country for training purposes to get ready for the track season.

"Last year was mainly one of consolidation for me and now I'm 18 I'll be in events where my opposition is some cases will be a couple of years older."

Shane admitted that his ultimate dream was the London Olympics of 2012.

He said: "It has to be the goal of every young athlete. To take part in the Olympics, especially when it's on home soil, would be a dream come true."

Shane has a younger and elder brother in athletics as well and dad Andy said: "This is a tremendous night for James and all our family.

"Of course we're really proud of what he's achieved already and we hope there's more to come. He works hard for his success.

"James is off to university later this year, but has already made it clear that he'll be staying local so that it doesn't interfere with his training.

"Right from the start he's been part of coach Martin Brown's group at Basildon and it's certainly worked for him so quite rightly he doesn't want to change.

"We were all delighted with his success in the European Youth Olympics in Italy in 2005 and this year the World Junior Championships in Poland are his number one aim.

"James will continue to compete in 800 and 1,500 events although I expect that the 800 will be his main aim this year."

Shane next runs a week today when he competes in a 5k event in Hyde Park.

Apart from athletics, Shane also finds time for another sporting world in the shape of judo.

A junior black belt at his club in Billericay, he helps coach youngsters there when athletic commitments allow.

TOP THREE 1st James Shane 26% 2nd James McLean 23% 3rd Jo-Jo Cranfield 20%

10:27am Friday 22nd February 2008

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