Sheffield schoolgirl could be the next Jess Ennis-Hill

Sheffield schoolgirl Erin Lobley, aged 11, has been crowned South Yorkshire champion two years running.

The youngster beat stiff competition to defend her indoor champion title – despite moving up to the higher age group.

Erin, who began competing just two years ago, said she aims to be a multi-event athlete like role model Jess.

She said: “When Jess won the Olympic gold, that really set me off. I thought she was amazing and wanted to be just like her.

“I’ve always been good at sports and it’s something I enjoy, but Jess really inspired me to train hard and be the best that I can.”

Erin, who competes for Hallamshire Harriers, finished last season ranked under-11 indoor county champion for 150m, 200m and long jump.

This season England Athletics ranked her under-13 indoor county champion for 200m, 600m and high jump.

The Sheffield High School pupil has also been crowned outdoor county champion twice and won two bronze medals at the Northern Athletics Championships.

Last summer Erin won every event she entered at the Sheffield Schools athletics championships and has a packed calendar of upcoming competitions ahead of her.

Erin, of Laughton-En-Le-Morthen, said: “In ten years’ time I want to be able to call myself an Olympic champion, just like Jess.

“I love training, competing and especially love winning. Hopefully I’ll have a gold post box one day.”

Erin said she trains almost every night after school and is competing or training every weekend.

She said: “My mum and dad, Nicola and Jim, are amazing. They take me to all the competitions and have been so supportive. My two younger sisters come along to a lot of my events too.”

Erin will next be competing in the first round of the South Yorkshire Outdoor Series on April 17.

n To find out more about athletics in South Yorkshire, visit www.sycaa.co.uk