The nominees for the BBC Sports Personality of the Year have taken to Twitter to express their gratitude and excitement of being nominated for the honour.
The 12 nominees consist of Nicola Adams, Ben Ainslie, Jessica Ennis, Mo Farah, Katherine Grainger, Sir Chris Hoy, Andy Murray, Ellie Simmonds, Sarah Storey, David Weir, Bradley Wiggins and Rory McIlroy, who is the only contender who is not an Olympic champion.
A number of the nominees posted messages on the social network site following the news that they had been chosen.
Nicola Adams
Wow can't believe I made the short list for #SPOTY never thought that would happen #adamseffect :)
Ben Ainslie
Real honour to have made the short list for SPOTY after possibly the best year ever for British sport. #GOGB
Jessica Ennis
So exciting to be named in the #SPOTY nominations! Some great sportsmen and women! Its going to be a tough one! But a great night!
Ellie Simmonds
I feel so honoured to be in the top 12 of #SPOTY with this year being such a great year for British Sport. #sportpersonalityoftheyear
Sarah Storey
So honoured to be nominated for #SPOTY thank you for all your lovely messages :)
David Weir
Thanks for the wicked messages on #BBCSPOTY such a honour to to be in the top 12 another step forward for Paralympic sport
