Becky James wins Young Sportswoman of the Year award

Welsh track sprinter Becky James has won the 2013 Sunday Times and Sky Sports Young Sportswoman of the Year award.

Twenty-two year old James from Abergavenny scooped the prestigious award after claiming two track world titles during 2013: keirin and sprint.

"It's just incredible to receive the award and it rounds off the best year of my career so far and I'm proud to see the long, hard hours of training have paid off," said James, who was unable to collect the award in person as she is currently competing in the second round of the UCI Track World Cup in Mexico.

"There's so many people that I owe thanks to, but in particular I'd like to thank my coaches and all the support staff at British Cycling who have helped me over the years, and also my family and friends for their constant support. I'm looking forward to building on what I've achieved so far, and hopefully 2014 will be another great year."

Athlete Christine Ohuruogu won the senior Sportswoman of the Year award. 

James missed out on Great Britain selection for the 2012 London Olympic Games, but is the current front runner for the keirin, sprint and team sprint selection for the 2016 Games in Rio.

Last night, James and team sprint partner Jess Varnish took silver behind German pair Kristina Vogel and Miriam Welte in Aguascalientes, Mexico. James will contest the keirin and individual sprint events taking place today (Friday) and on Saturday.

Related links

Becky James: Rider profile

British women set new team pursuit world record - again