Young BMX rider Reuben Smith hasn’t put the brakes on during the lockdown.

Smith was hoping to take part in the World Championships next month in Houston, Texas, but they have been cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

The youngster from Rochester was also due to attend a British Cycling talent development regional race school programme later this month. That's off too.

He is riding in the 13 years age group this year although he won’t be 13 until July.

It would usually be a busy time of year in the calendar with racing at the regionals, nationals and training hard for the World BMX Championships. None if this has been possible, however,

Although everything is on hold right now, the youngster hasn’t stopped training, whether that’s in the front room, or leading his family out for an exercise.

He would normally train with his coach Julian Allen every Thursday evening at Cyclopark but those have been replaced by sprint sessions over the video conferencing app Zoom twice a week.

Smith is also in contact remotely with his coaches at British Cycling, who set weekly challenges.

His mum Maria said: “Reuben remains hard on task with daily skills exercises in his own courtyard, training indoor via zoom and taking care of his family’s routine by taking them out for the hourly gentle exercise on their bikes.

“Reuben remains healthy, well and motivated despite being unable to do what he loves outdoors at BMX race tracks. With the help of social media Reuben connects with both National and International BMXers, thus encouraging, challenging each other to stay fit, healthy, positive and motivated.

“Reuben would like remain an ambassador for mental health by promoting exercise by following government guidelines and positive thinking.”

There has yet to be a confirmation of a revised date for the BMX World Championships.

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