YOUNG Charley Dyson has just returned from sunny California with a $1,000 cheque for competing in the sport he loves.
But it’s just another day in the life of the 12-year-old Netherwood Academy pupil, who at eight years old was named the world’s youngest professional scooter rider.
Charley is practically a veteran of the sport, having competed around the world against riders who could be as much as twice his age.
He has come out on top at an event held in Chino Hills, California, winning $1,000 after showing his skills alongside competitors from around the world.
It’s a long way from Dexx Skate Park on Derwent Way, Brampton, where Charley started practising almost daily after falling in love with the sport.
“I didn’t expect him to win, but he pulled it out of the bag,” said dad Andy, 37, of Rectory Close, Wombwell.
“His work ethic is second to none. He grafts.
“When he was born he wasn’t any more talented than any other baby, but when you spend four hours of every day in the park practising, that’s the level you can get to.
“If we say to come home and he hasn’t mastered the trick he’s practising, he isn’t pleased and will want to stay.
“He used to be really nervous about competing, but he’s not as bad now. He’s settled into his skin. The week before the competition in Chino Hills, he was competing at Stroud and won £200 for coming second, so he’s doing all right.
“It’s what he wants to do, it’s the only career path in his mind at the minute.”
Charley competed at the Hot Wheels Nitro Junior Games - a collaboration between the toy car brand and Nitro Circus, a worldwide stunt show founded by motocross rider Travis Pastrana.
The event saw skateboarders, BMX riders and scooter riders come together, being mentored by stars of each sport - with Charley getting tips from professional rider Chris Farris - before competing against one another.
Andy said: “We had a great week in California, finished off with a couple of days at Venice Beach.
“We travelled to meet Charley’s friend who’s a famous YouTuber and spent the day driving all these fast cars.
“And then we had to cut the big cheque in half, so we could get it in the suitcase.”
