ELLINGTON FOR SALE !

James makes his point - no kit deal, no sponsorship, and yet he's a
world class sprinter! Why? Read on...

It's been the talk of today (Weds 7/12/11), and will probably be the talk of tomorrow for some time to come - Trackspeed1's World Championship Sprinter James Ellington is up for sale to the highest bidder!

As the only leading British International sprinter without an endorsement or sponsor, let alone kit contract, he has taken the unique step of putting himself on E-Bay with a reserve price of £30,000. The idea is that a company wanting to support the 2012 Olympic hopeful, make a bid for a talented sportsman who will display and support their brand.

The whole concept is well documented in the media - and you can have a look at his website as well at www.jamesellington.net, including the national press (see The Sun / Mail sports pages, Metro page 9 today, and probably many more!)

James poses for the national media at Crystal Palace as news of his E-Bay
bidding initiative breaks!

And the initial news is spectacular, as it appears there has been huge interest generated as the 26-year-old south east Londoner tours the media today, ranging from Breakfast TV to TalkSport radio and BBC / ITV / Sky News slots. He has certainly grasped the imagination of a lot of people!

"This is absolutely brilliant news," commented coach John Powell, who himself took part in the media launch at Crystal Palace yesterday. "James has got to where he is through simple hard graft and determination, unlike man of his supported rivals, all of whom have kit deals and, in some cases, several other endorsements.

"He has a mortgage to pay like everyone else, and a family to support. He cannot be expected to fulfil his potential as an Olympic athlete training full time if he has no income. All he earns at present is a pittance from my Met-Track scheme."

James ended a spectacular 2011 season with lifetime best times in both 100m and 200m sprints, and was the fastest Briton over 200m without the assistance of an altitude venue. Competing in his first ever World Championships in 2011 lines him up as one of TeamGB's principal hopes for sprint glory in East London next Summer.