James feeling Smart after county call

HIGH FLIER: James Smart.

ATHLETICS:

MOORSIDE prospect James Smart has won a place in the Greater Manchester under-11 Athletics squad.

The 10 year old was selected at the Sportshall FIA regional finals at Sportcity in Manchester after successfully competing in a series of events before Christmas as a member of his local team, Oldham and Royton Harriers.

A keen sportsman, James also competes in athletics events for Manchester Grammar School.

His passion for running started when he won the 600m title at a northern schools’ championship.

James said: “I have only been training for the last six months. A teacher at my previous school recommended I join a local athletics club.”

James competed with the GM team for the first time last weekend, when they were runners-up.

He added: “I thoroughly enjoy everything about athletics and being a part of the Greater Manchester team was brilliant.”

James will continue to train with Oldham and Royton twice a week, as well as representing MGS at football, rugby and cross-country.