Gillespie is in the running to win the $1000 prize on offer for the region’s most promising junior sports person.

Twelve nominees will be honoured during an awards dinner in Albury in March where the winner will be announced.

Graeme Bye, human resource manager at Norske Skog, said the company was proud to support the award.

“Norske Skog is delighted to again be the naming rights partner of the Norske Skog Young Achiever Award,” he said.

“Like everyone, we are keen to continue to identify and nominate young athletes between the ages of 15 to 21 who achieved sporting excellence throughout 2008.

“We look forward to another great night with the young achievers of the year at the SS & A club on Friday, March 13.

“There has been an amazing range of athletes, both male and female, to win this award and the winner will join illustrious company.”

Last year’s award was taken out by North Albury netballer Breda O’Kane.

Previous winners include world champion pole vaulter Emma George, basketball superstar Lauren Jackson and wheelchair basketballer Ben Cooper.

To nominate a Young Achiever, contact Sport Albury-Wodonga chairman Graeme Hicks on 0418 253 959.

- Born to ride — page 52