JACK Broadbent was jumping for joy after winning the under-20s South of England Combined Events title.

The Basildon Athletics Club star set a new club record of 4.092 points to triumph in the indoor heptathlon at Lee Valley.

And the youngster was unable to contain his delight.

“I was overwhelmed when I crossed the line and I fell to the ground in disbelief,” said Broadbent, 17.

“When I crossed the line I knew I had won because I was aware of who I had to beat and the time I had to run.

“This was my first major championship win and I have worked really hard for it.

“But I am so glad to bring the win back to Basildon and as proof to my family and training group as to how much their support really means.”

Broadbent collected his Essex Schools vest earlier in the summer but, having now entered the early stages of winter training, he was unsure whether or not he would shine at the weekend.

However, those concerns were soon swept aside when his day one score left him leading the pack.

Broadbent then extended his lead after the 60m hurdles on day two but saw this cut back after his nearest rival achieved a big personal best in the pole vault.

But Broadbent ran well in the 1,000m, to secure a victory he is now keen to build on.

“My ambitions for the next competing season will be to set new personal bests in all 10 events across the decathlon,” said Broadbent.

“I am aiming to compete at and win gold at the English Schools Multi-Events National Finals.

“And with my first championship title under my belt I am looking forward to competing at Nationals in the summer and I will be aiming to be National Champion and represent England or Great Britain.”

But, with those targets in mind, Broadbent is already training hard.

“Since the summer season ended, training has been intense,” said Broadbent.

“The aim at this part of winter training has been to develop all areas of fitness as well as strength.

“We do a lot of muscular and speed endurance training as well as working into the lactic acid energy system to improve in all areas of the multi-events.

“We have also been focusing on a lot of hurdling techniques.

“I began my career primarily as a hurdler before moving to the multi-events and now we are really getting into the finer details of hurdling in order to make larger improvements.”