Boy, six, heading for motocross stardom

A six-year-old boy who has always been obsessed with bikes is now a rising star in the world of motocross racing.

Junior, from Sheffield, travels around the country competing and is coached by a former champion of the sport in Jordan Eccles.

So far in 2026, he is unbeaten in 10 race meetings and tops the standings in three national leagues.

According to his parents, Jack and Rachel, his passion for riding began as a toddler on his balance bike.

Jack, 33, said he recalled dark winter evenings with his eldest child, who was desperate to spend as long as possible in the saddle.

"It were that bad I had to go to Halfords and get him a light for his balance bike so I could take him around the block in the dark after work. That's how obsessed he was with it."

His skills on the track were honed at a kids' night at SX Works, an indoor motocross track in Ecclesfield.

Weekends are now spent at meets up and down the country.

Rachel, 38, described her emotional state during his races as "like an absolute nervous wreck".

"I sometimes wear sunglasses because I well up. I have to say like a little prayer on the start line, for it to be a safe race."

Former professional rider Eccles spotted Junior's potential at an early stage and contacted the family, from Gleadless, to offer his guidance.

"It was obvious that he had a lot of what you need to succeed. He's a good listener. He's brave too and you have to be fearless in this sport. He could definitely compete in the British Championships when he's older."

Eccles left the UK to compete in the US aged 14 and said he believed that could also be an option for Junior.

"It's a different level over there, they take it really seriously."

Junior now trains at the Fatcat track in Doncaster, while his parents juggle his routine around caring for his younger brother and sister.

Jack added: "When he's got something to focus on, he really zones in and locks in on that one particular thing.

"When he gets on his bike, he's a completely different kid. If we don't take him riding it can be a nightmare around the house, he can literally be bouncing off walls, and then once he's been on his bike it's like he's released the energy and he's a lot calmer.

"Every time he comes off a track I've never seen a kid wear a smile as big, literally from ear to ear, and that's why we do it."

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