Ben Hennon, 16, from Crook, proved his skill on a BMX bike when he finished sixth in an international BMX tournament at Telford, recently.
Ben said: "Forty-eight riders from Britain, Europe and the USA were in the competition, which was called the Backyard Jam.
"We were judged on our ability and style on the ramps with the best 12 going into the final."
Ben, who was the youngest entrant in the competition by around four years, has only been BMX riding for three years. His interest started when Wear Valley District Council opened a skate park at Glenholme, Crook.
He goes there and to Thornaby to practise. It was at Thornaby that he was introduced to American company Fox Racing, who are now his sponsors.
"They give me gear to ride in, tell me where to go and buy the tickets."
Following the event another American company, Etnies, have agreed to sponsor him.
There are more competitions on the way and Ben is looking forward to competing in them
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