WALES has a new UK sports champion. Bridgend based Josh Popham, aged just 16, has claimed the prestigious UK Over-13’s title at ScootGB the national scootering championship, solidifying his place as one of the country’s most promising extreme sports athletes.
The championship, now in its 11th year, took place at a dedicated extreme sports venue in Corby, Northamptonshire, and featured fierce competition among the nation’s top young scooter riders. After placing second earlier in the year in the Welsh qualifying round Josh, who trains at Ramp World in Cardiff, outperformed a field of 34 talented competitors in the highly contested category to take the top spot.
Commenting on lifting the UK category champion title on his first attempt, Josh said: “This is a dream come true for me. It’s still sinking in that my childhood hobby has gone on to see me lift the highest UK title for scooter riders of my age”.
Josh’s journey in the world of extreme scootering began at age 12 during a family trip to Ramp World, an extreme sports venue in Cardiff. It was here that he first discovered his passion for the sport, and he now trains regularly at the same facility. His determination and commitment have seen him quickly rise to the top ranks of UK scooter riders.
In addition to his sporting achievements, Josh recently completed his GCSEs in June and is now pursuing a business studies course at college. Alongside his studies, Josh works part-time as a digital assistant in the family business, SECUREIT, managed by his father, Philip Popham.
Philip Popham, who cheered him on with other family members at the finals, said: “I’m incredibly proud of Josh’s success in the competition. His dedication to the sport, combined with his focus on education, is truly inspiring. We’re excited to support him as he prepares for the World Championship final next year”
Josh will continue to train rigorously at Ramp World, with his sights now set on the 2025 World Championship, where he wants to represent the UK on the global stage. Josh hopes to become the latest in a line of British riders who have excelled on the international stage after winning a UK title. ScootGB has produced the last five World Champions, and Josh’s triumph has hopefully set him on a similar path to success.
