AN inspiring amateur athlete has made it as champion after successful win at the British Biathlon Championships.
Zach Callinan from Bracknell competed for the reigning title at Nottingham's Harvey Hadden Sports Complex on Saturday (November 23).
The 8-year-old Sandy Lane school pupil beat more than 600 competitors to become Biathlon champion in a sport combining swimming and running.
Zach's dad Levi Callinan explained how he is a role model for other children to exercise.
Levi Callinan, said: "As parents we are incredibly proud of what Zach has achieved this year. "He is a great role model to other children and always encourages those around him to keep fit and be healthy which is great to see."
ALSO READ: Met office issue yellow weather warning for fog Earlier this year, Zach won four times in the Great Britain Biathle series held in York and is now ranked as number 1 in the country.
In October, he also successfully won the regional qualifier at Bracknell Leisure Centre.
His dad coaches him on strength and body conditioning which gives him a 'competitive advantage against other children'.
The schoolboy also trains five days a week for about 10 hours per week.
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Mr Callinan added: "He has competed all over the country and gained lots of valuable experience.
"Ending the year by becoming British Modern Biathlon Champion is testament to the consistent hard work and determination he has put in."
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