JOSH POPHAM, 16 years-old, from Bridgend, is aiming for first place this weekend at ScootGB, the UK extreme scootering finals taking place at Adrenaline Alley in Corby, Northamptonshire.
For those in the know, scootering is an action sport that involves performing tricks on a kick scooter, often in skateparks or on the streets. The talented young south Wales sportsman, who honed his scootering skills at Ramp World in Cardiff, is looking to take the title of UK Champion on his first attempt following four years of dedicated practice and training.
After successfully completing his GCSEs in June this year, Josh has been taking an ambitious approach to both his education and sporting career. In addition to following a business studies course at college, Josh also works part-time in the family business as a digital assistant for SECUREIT. He balances his professional commitments with his passion for extreme scootering, a sport he discovered at the age of 12 during a family trip to a local extreme sports venue.
“I’m really excited about the opportunity to compete in the UK finals,” Josh said. “Balancing my studies, work, and training has been challenging, but I’m passionate about all of them. I’m ready to push myself and see what I can achieve.”
Josh’s dedication to scootering has seen him rise through the ranks, developing exceptional technical skills that combine fitness, manual dexterity and acrobatics. Over the past two years, he has consistently impressed in regional competitions, achieving second place in the Welsh scootering finals.
Now, with his sights firmly set on the UK finals, Josh has been training hard to try and secure a first-place podium finish in what will be his inaugural appearance at the national level. A successful performance in Corby could see him go on to compete in the World Finals next year, marking an exciting step in his sporting journey.
Josh added: “I am really looking forward to competing in this competition. I appreciate it’s my first shot at the title, but I have been training very hard and I’m ready for the challenge. I know it all comes down to just a couple of minutes on the day, but I’m going to give it my best and see if I can bring the UK title back home to my club in Cardiff.”
Josh’s family and colleagues at SECUREIT are immensely proud of his achievements both in the business world and on the scootering circuit.
His father and founder of SECUREIT, Philip Popham, commented: “Josh’s commitment to his sport and work ethic at the company are remarkable, his feet just don’t touch the ground most days. Whether it’s in the office or on the scooter, he gives it his all, and we couldn’t be prouder. We will be cheering him on in the finals.”
The UK extreme scootering finals are set to be a thrilling event, and Josh is one to watch as he aims to make a big impression in the sport, and bring the UK title back home to Wales.
