Brownlee 'bit sad' not to make list

Olympic gold medallist Alistair Brownlee has admitted he is sad not to make the shortlist for the Sports Personality of the Year award.

The selector's panel for the BBC award said it was a tough decision to leave the inspirational triathlete off the 12-strong shortlist.

And 24-year-old from Leeds tipped cycling sensation Bradley Wiggins or double gold medallist Mo Farah to win the award.

Speaking at the BT British Olympic Ball, Brownlee said: "I think the list is kind of fair on the whole, I think everyone knew it was going to be a very, very hard year for British sport and what a fantastic year it has been so it's hard to pick the list. It is what it is.

"Of course I'm a little bit sad not to be on it but someone picks that and it's up to them whether they leave you on or off or not, there's nothing I could have done about it so I'm not bothered."