A TEENAGER who has been riding speedway bikes for half his young life, has been selected to take part in this year's British Youth Championships — a first for an Islander.

It has been a whirlwind past few weeks for Jack Scully-Syer, who recently turned 13 years' old.

Jack started riding bikes when he was aged seven, with the My First Skid speedway school, run by Wightlink Warriors co-owners Barry Bishop and Martin Widman, at Smallbrook Stadium in Ryde.

Fast forward to two weeks ago and the young talent is pinching himself after he was invited to be a part of the championships, by the British U21 team manager.

The championships, due to get underway sometime this spring, will take Jack to some of the best speedway stadiums around Britain, including Belle Vue in Manchester, Edinburgh, Berwick and Kent.

"To ride in the championships is an amazing opportunity to learn and to show who I am as a rider," said Jack.

He will be wearing number 77 — "seven being his lucky number, making it doubly lucky," according to his proud mum, Charlotte.

"Jack is over the moon. He's really looking forward to representing the Island — and hopefully encourage more Island youngsters to get involved in the sport.

"Most kids who take part in it, apply, but Jack was invited, which is a real privilege.

"This will be his first major competition — a massive step up." 

Jack, who lives just five minutes from Smallbrook, has been cutting his speedway teeth competing in race events before the Wightlink Warriors take to the shale.

The youngster's potential was spotted at high profile training camps on the mainland and at some of the 'Skid' sessions at Smallbrook.

It also hasn't done him any harm his mother's partner is retired Warriors speedway star, Danno Verge, who has been guiding Jack on his journey through the sport.

Jack is also inspired by watching speedway around the country, including the Speedway Grand Prix. 

Island-born Jack, who attends Ryde Academy and went to Binstead Primary, has a burning ambition to become a pro-speedway rider or, at the very least, be a mechanic to one.

"My journey has only just started. I hope to keep on going and progressing," said Jack. 

"I wouldn't be anywhere near what I am now if it wasn't for my mum and step-dad, who have helped and motivated me throughout my journey."

Jack also paid tribute to his sponsors.

"He lives and breathes speedway. That's what he wants to do with his life," Charlotte concluded.