Mackenzie is ‘just a natural’ at motocross

A SCHOOLBOY is racing ahead after he was named in the top three in the country and chosen to represent Team GB in motocross.

Mckenzie Marshall, aged 11, of Cellarhead, has been racing for the last five years while studying at St John’s Primary School in Wetley Rocks.

Mckenzie is ranked within the top three in England and has the chance to race for Team GB in a competition in Australia.

The young rider is currently on 65cc bikes before making the jump to 85cc next year.

Most recently, he represented Great Britain at the beginning of October at a European Motocross event in Belgium, where he finished 12th out of 40 riders.

Mckenzie said: “I would say that I have taken part in 100 races now and I have won a lot of them.

“It has been an honour to be called up to represent Team GB.

“I really enjoy motocross and have been doing it for a few years.

“I like the jumps and the thrill of being on the bike.

“I have high hopes going forward and think that I could win the Junior British Championship.”

Parents Helen and Steven have been overwhelmed by their son’s achievements, and could not be prouder.

Steven, aged 39, said: “My son rides in the British Championship and is in the top three in the country.

“He started riding on 50cc bikes when he was five-years-old and has really taken to it.

“We are not pushy parents at all. He has done this all off his own bat and has his own motivation.

“He had a little electric bike at first.

“I used to do it and I think it all came from that, but since then it has all been him.

“He has been selected to represent Team GB and we are all so proud of his massive achievement.

“It is an honour for him and I am over the moon for him because we know how hard it is.

“Mckenzie has not had proper training, he is just a natural at it and we believe in him and what he can do.”

As a result of his fantastic achievements, Mckenzie has been nominated in the Bright Star of the Year category in the Moorlands Heroes Awards.