Zak set for Youth Olympics

Published 13 Aug 2010 09:00 0 Comments

BY TOM REYNOLDS

BRACKNELL’S Zak Seddon admits he’s stepping into the unknown at this month’s inaugural Youth Olympic Games in Singapore - but the steeplechase ace has vowed to roar in the Lion City.

The 16-year-old will line up against the best the junior world has to offer in the 2000m steeplechase - including a host of African runners who traditionally dominant the event on the global stage.

But the Piggott School pupil is no stranger to success on the athletics track either and can boast English Schools’ gold and a championship record to boot as proof of his form this season.

Seddon flew east to Moscow earlier this summer to compete at the European Youth Olympic trials and while a top three finish was good enough to book his place to Singapore - the Bracknell AC member topped the pile in Russia.

And while Seddon admits the Singapore competition will provide the acid test, he believes this could be the first step of his Olympic odyssey which he hopes climaxes at the 2012 or 2016 Games.

“In Singapore I’m desperate to get a personal best,” said Seddon. “I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in and I really want a PB, but I’ll gun for gold too.

“I’ll run hard and see what happens because it’s such a great opportunity.

“The most important thing is that I know that if I run my best I’m not going to come away disappointed.

“The Africans are so strong and traditionally they do very well at these events.

“But it just feels great to representing Great Britain, the whole atmosphere and everything here. It’s what I want to do for years to come to be honest. If I aim for 2012 and work hard, I know I can make it.”

Seddon, who left for Singapore on Monday, is expecting to feel a few butterflies in his stomach as the countdown to his Olympic outing gathers pace.

But the Bracknell AC youngster is keeping his fingers crossed he takes to the international competition like a duck to water.

“I’m not usually one to get nervous and I’m really excited to be chosen, but nerves will probably kick in later on, but at the moment I’m really up for it,” added Seddon.

“I’ve never been over to that side of the world before so I’m looking forward to seeing that and it’s just all one big incredible experience to be honest.

“I don’t have any injury worries or fitness doubts as I’m not someone who often gets injured, so that’s obviously a really bonus ahead of the Games and it’s nice to know I’m in good form.”

Lloyds TSB is proud partner of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games and supporter of Team GB on their journey to the 2010 Singapore Youth Olympic Games. Visit LloydsTSB.com/London2012 for more.

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This article appeared in Villager 12 Aug 10

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