A TEENAGER from Stourport competed in the prestigious Swatch Nines race – one of mountain biking’s biggest events on the international stage.
Felyx Williams, aged 16-years-old, headed to Solden, Austria representing Stourport-on-Severn-based Burlish Bike Park.
The Stourport High School student, who represents Burlish in the national MTB 4X series, received an invitation to join the Senders Academy at Swatch Nines.
Swatch nines brings together some of mountain biking’s biggest names with Williams Great Britain’s only non-professional representative at the event.
And Williams secured his place at the event after seeing a social media post inviting up-and-coming riders to apply for entry.
He submitted a riding video and found himself on a shortlist of 40 riders from around the world.
A public vote followed with Williams winning an invitation to Austria thanks to support from friends, family, riders and the wider community.
Williams rode alongside some of mountain biking’s most recognised athletes at Swatch Nines with the event also renowned for creativity and big tricks.
Williams said: “The experience was both inspiring and unforgettable.
“Arriving at Swatch Nines and seeing the scale of the course, the level of riding, and the atmosphere around the event was a huge moment for me.
“Riding alongside athletes I’ve watched online for years gave me the chance to learn, push myself, and see what is possible at the very top of the sport.
“Although it was a big step up, I embraced the challenge, taking in advice, watching different lines, and growing in confidence throughout the event.
“It was honestly unreal. To be riding at Swatch Nines with people I’ve looked up to for years was a dream.
“At first it felt massive and a bit overwhelming, but everyone was so supportive and it made me want to push myself even more.”
He began riding at the age of two-years-old and quickly progressed to local pump tracks and also dirt jumps.
Williams eventually progressed to compete in the British Four Cross Series.
The teenager helped build the site at Burlish and now also runs the Park’s young leaders volunteer programme.
Open Trail and Burlish Bike Park founder, Hannah Escott said: “Felyx has been part of Burlish from the very beginning.
“He has helped shape the park, supported other young riders, and worked incredibly hard on his own riding.
“To see him earn a place at Swatch Nines is just amazing. It shows what is possible when young people are given opportunity, responsibility and belief.”
