SWIM sensation James Magnussen has praised the concept of the Newcastle Permanent Hastings Sportsperson of the Year awards.
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Earlier this month, the teenager beat a red-hot field to collect the 2010 crown.
Magnussen, who was contesting the Telstra Australian Swimming Championships on the morning of the winner’s announcement, claimed the region’s top honour from Tim Berkel (triathlon), Kimberley Broderick (indoor cricket), Allison Shreeve (windsurfing), Chase O’Leary (bodyboarding), Stephen Searson (swimming), Mitchell Breheny (climbing), Adam Taylor (tennis) and Kim Chilton (rowing).
“I certainly didn’t expect it,” he said.
“It was a nice surprise.
“Especially, with guys like Tim (Berkel) and Ryley (Batt) doing so well in their respective sports.
“But, it (prizemoney) will go a long way towards expenses, such as accommodation.
“It’s not cheap down here.
“And, even though I’m now living in Sydney, I’m more than happy to represent Port Macquarie.”
