KATE Williamson was stunned to be shortlisted for the county’s sportswoman of the year at the age of 70.

The Eynsham Road Runner is in contention alongside five-time Olympic rower Frances Houghton and rising cricket star Linsey Smith for next week’s Oxfordshire Sports Awards.

Williamson, who lives in Witney, broke a 23-year-old veteran 70 record at the Virgin Money London Marathon, with a time of 3hrs 42mins 42secs.

She also won her category in nine events, as well as in the Mota-vation series.

“I was absolutely amazed to be nominated,” said Williamson, who will attend the ceremony at Oxford’s Kassam Stadium on Friday, January 27, with her husband Phil.

“I just was not expecting anything like that at all, especially when I look at the two other people.”

She added: “There will be loads of interesting people and hopefully I will get to know a bit about them.

“Frances Houghton is a very prestigious athlete and I know Linsey has done a lot for her sport and has come a long way.”

The feeling is mutual amongst her two rivals for the night.

Houghton marked her final Games in Rio by helping the Great Britain women’s eight win silver.

The 36-year-old, who hails from Wheatley and attended the Dragon School, Oxford, was humbled by the nomination.

Houghton said: “I was really bowled over by it, especially seeing the other girls who entered.

“One of the other ladies did a marathon at 70 and that is incredible.

“I am really looking forward to meeting them as well and so honoured to be nominated.

“It is really, really nice.”

Aston Rowant’s Smith enjoyed a whirlwind summer to help the Southern Vipers win the inaugural Kia Super League.

The 21-year-old left-arm spinner, from Thame, took record figures in the women’s T20 competition of 4-16 in the quarter final.

She has since been selected for England Women’s Senior Academy and admitted the whole experience “felt like a dream”.

Her year was capped off with the awards nomination, she said: “It was a huge surprise, I had no idea.

“It is amazing being up for that award, but there is some tough competition.

“What can I say, I just throw a ball around. Just to be in the top three is pretty special.”