BASILDON’S Max Whitlock cannot wait to again sample the atmosphere of Glasgow’s Hydro after being nominated for the BBC Sports Personality of the Award.

Whitlock shone at the venue in the Commonwealth Games last summer, winning three gold medals, plus one silver and a bronze.

He also won gold and silver at the European Championships and finished second in the all around final at the World Championships during 2014.

And that has led to Whitlock being one of 10 athletes on the shortlist for the BBC’s award night which will be held at the Hydro in mid-December.

“It will be great to go back to the Hydro again as I had some great experiences there at the Commonwealth Games,” said the 21-year-old.

“I’m sure this will be another special occasion and I’m very honoured and humbled to have been nominated.”

Among those nominated alongside Whitlock are golfer Rory McIlroy, Formula 1 World Champion Lewis Hamilton, boxer Carl Froch and Real Madrid star Gareth Bale.

And Whitlock admitted it felt ‘surreal’ to his name listed alongside such huge sporting figures.

“To be up there with all those big names is an amazing feeling and it feels a bit surreal to be honest, especially as I still feel as though I’m still in the early stages of my career,” said Whitlock who trains at the South Essex Gymnastics Club in Basildon.

“It’s great to be recognised for what I’ve done this year and it was hard having to keep this nomination quiet.

“I only found out about week ago but I’m happy it’s all out in the open now and it’s made it all seem more real as well.

“It’s caps off a great year and this season has been a huge learning curve for me.

“It’s also given me a massive boost ahead of next season when hopefully I can do well at more of the major championships.”

Whitlock has become just the second gymnast to ever be nominated for BBC Sports Personality of the Year, following in the foot-steps of Beth Tweddle who was also shortlisted in 2009.

But Whitlock’s coach, Scott Hann, will not be able to attend the big night as his wife is due to give birth on the same day.

“Max asked me to go but my wife is pregnant and it’s the due date on the same day so I think we better stay at home,” said Hann.

“I’m massively proud he’s made the shortlist though and a better guy could not have been nominated for it.

“It’s not just about his achievements it’s about who he is and how he conducts himself.

“I also think he has a good chance of finishing high up in the vote as well. “