NORTHALLERTON born Scott Beaumont, 40, was already riding bikes at the age of just two-and-a-half years old, yet when he rode his way to a seventh place finish at this month’s World Four-Cross Championships in Italy the sense of achievement was no less impressive.

For the man that was racing nationally at aged five, winning his first European Championships at the age of seven, he’s enjoyed an illustrious career thus far that has seen him win no fewer than eight national titles in the Four-Cross event – that’s in addition to two BMX world titles, a discipline in which he has ten British titles.

Beaumont is, however, very keen to point out that he’s not done yet, as he recalled his World Four-Cross Championship’s experience from earlier this month: “The race went well, but it’s hard to be pleased with seventh! The nature of Four Cross is you can win one week then finish seventh the next. On the night I gave 100 per cent and made some aggressive moves at the right times but it wasn’t to be my night.”

Contemplating on what might have been he added: “In the semi-final I was in second (the top two transfer to the final) and unfortunately the rider in third made an aggressive move that damaged my gears.

"I was unable to pedal for the remainder of the track and missed out on a guaranteed top four finish. Seventh was okay, but it was nearly so much more. I finished ahead of last year’s world champion and two weeks previously I actually beat the winner - it’s just the way it goes!”

Refusing to give up on his ultimate goal to become the first male rider to become world champion in both BMX and Four-Cross disciplines, Beaumont has no plans to retire and next year plans to chase world gold in both events.

First and foremost though, he’ll head to Falmouth next month for the national Four-Cross Championships where he hopes to be able to scoop his ninth crown in the event.

“I’m excited to defend my title and my preparations are going perfectly. My aim is to win as many races as possible and race through until at least 45!”

Having been in the sport for more than 40 years now, some might think it’s a struggle to maintain longevity. For Scott though, it’s simple.

“I love the sport and to me there’s no sport out there like it – it’s the most action-packed cycling sport in the world. My drive to win is stronger than ever!”

  • Scott Beaumont is an ambassador for sports nutrition brand USN who have just launched their brand new Blue Lab Whey protein. To find out more visit www.usn.co.uk