IT S destination Delhi for Newham & Essex Beagles javelin thrower Chris Hughff who believes he is more than capable of picking up a medal at the Commonwealth Games next October, writes MATT DINER. The 27-year-old has only been competing in the event for o

IT'S destination Delhi for Newham & Essex Beagles javelin thrower Chris Hughff who believes he is more than capable of picking up a medal at the Commonwealth Games next October, writes MATT DINER.

The 27-year-old has only been competing in the event for one season and in that time, the former GB decathlete has already become the second best thrower in the country.

"I'm trying to take things step-by-step, but I was talking to my coach about me getting a medal in Delhi the other day and I must admit I do have my eye on one," smiled the Brunel student, who is determined to keep his feet on the ground.

"I'm ranked number six in the commonwealth and so while I have improved, you expect others to do so as well.

"You have to throw over 75m to get in and I threw 76.92m to break the universities record, but I know how things like injuries can wreck your preparations, so you have to stay calm and focused."

The long term target is London 2012, where at the age of 30, he will be in his prime and believes he can throw well over 80 metres.

And while he admitted it will be a tough ask, he also has his sights set on Mark Roberson's club record of 85.67m.

"I don't know if I will, he might read this," he laughed, when asked whether he could better the distance. "I would love to beat it, but you never quite know, but if I did get anywhere near that it would be quality."

To break that mark would be an outstanding achievement especially considering before this year he had been concentrating solely on the decathalon.

"I got fed up with the injuries you can pick up in the decathlon which was frustrating as I could not compete at my best," he said.

"Javelin was always one of my favourite events and I kept throwing decent distances when I would compete in the decathlon, so I thought I would concentrate solely on that event."

It seems like he made the right decision, going from strength to strength under coach Mike McNeill and after a good opening season, he is looking forward to working hard in the winter and improving.

"This year has gone as well as I had expected it to," he said.

"I was a bit ropey last year and at the start could only throw 72m.

"I did train last winter but I only had 10 proper sessions, while now I will see him at least once a week.

"I'm looking forward to improving both my strength and technique which are the two most important parts of javelin throwing."

Hughff is looking for sponsorship to help him with his travel and equipment for the new season.

If you are interested, ring Chris on 07890 695408.