There was never a better time for role models for young British sportsmen. Following hard on the heels of a successful Olympics we have a new world champion in Formula 1 and a tennis player who has been winning big tournaments steadily over the past few months.

I watched the Grand Prix in Brazil on Sunday and could not make sense of the last few moments when Lewis looked to be out of it and then nipped right back in to take 5th place and the Champion’s title. His focus to the very last minute is an example to us all. How often do we give up when things go a bit wrong or take our eye off the ball at a crucial moment? He did neither ( though of course there is no ball in his sport) and has the championship to show for it. News coverage showed a teenage Lewis, then driving go-karts – that he was focused on Formula 1 – now at the age of 24 he has already made it!

Andy Murray won the Madrid and St Petersburg Open tennis championships in the past month or so. On his own website he says that he has some work to do on clay and grass to keep at the top level throughout the whole year. He has a clear focus on that and there is no reason to believe that he won’t make it.  

Neither Lewis not Andy had what could be considered to be “normal” childhoods – and I guess that is the only way you can be successful in your sport at age 24 and 21 respectively. Obviously Andy has some way to go to be THE number 1 in the world of tennis but he has time on his side.

In the world of celebrity and media style though they are poles apart. Lewis has an engaging personality in TV interviews  seems to enjoy himself . Andy comes across as rather dour but I am sure he will win fans by winning tournaments rather than a winning smile.

So there you go – 2 Gen Y examples of focus, great work – and success. Now instead of branding all young in the same way it would be really good to hear other success stories…