A CROSS country runner’s sporting career is going swimmingly – despite doing no specific training at all.

Risedale Sports and Community College student Jack Catterall has been selected to compete in the English Schools Cross Country Championships after a string of successes.

But the 16-year-old is actually a competitive swimmer rather than a runner - and does all of his training in the pool.

“My fitness regime is around swimming and I compete for Richmond Swimming Club, particularly the 200m backstroke,” said Jack, whose brothers George, 14 and Harry 12, are also good swimmers and their dad a level three coach.

“I’m up at 5.30am to train in the pool six to seven times a week for two hours a day. With the running I just turn up and run. I suppose the breathing and endurance I get from swimming must help with the running.”

The head of PE at the Catterick school, Celina Brierley said: “Jack is unbelievable and it is amazing that his fitness transfers from one sport to another so well. Everyone is very proud of his achievements and we have suggested that he thinks about becoming a triathlete.”

Jack added: “I am thinking of trying cycling as well so that would make sense."