A TEENAGER has been crowned British Cycling Youth Circuit Series Champion.

Ben Partridge, a 14-year-old student at Richmond School, has completed a season of cycling at the top of his game, to become the U14 British champion. Over the last seven months he has competed in seven intense rounds across the country. His training, hard work and determination have paid off and Ben is elated to win the series overall.

As well as competing in the national youth events, including races in Brands Hatch, the Isle of Man and Pembrey, Ben has also taken part in the School Games, representing the North East. Ben was delighted to be third-fastest in the street sprints, a huge achievement as he was the youngest of all 48 boys taking part, most of whom were 15 and 16 years old.

Ben said: “The last few months have been back-to-back cycling and the intensity of training has been immense. Ahead of the last two rounds, I was in pole position but I couldn’t be complacent as my peers are really strong and committed, so the pressure was on to maintain my lead.”

Ben is aiming high and hopes to be represent Team GB, at both World Championship and Olympic events.

Richmond School and Sixth Form College’s Head of Community Sport Tony Potter said: “We predicted in May that Ben would deliver further success, so it comes as no surprise that he is a national winner, continuing his unbeatable levels of performance at elite level. We look forward to watching Ben go from strength to strength, there really is no stopping him.”