Lewis aims to impress

Published 28 May 2010 15:30 0 Comments

INNERLEITHEN downhiller Lewis Buchanan proved he had talent beyond his years at the European cup in Germany last weekend.

The 16-year-old was competing as a junior at the IXS cup in Winterberg, but had such a fast time he managed to place eleventh in the professional riders category of elite.

Just four seconds separated him from first place in the elite category, beating some of the world's most famous riders in the process.

The result will come as a relief to the Borders College student after a disappointing world cup debut in Slovenia, where horrendous weather conditions took their toll and Lewis failed to qualify for the final.

Lewis is racing his first year in the junior category, and will race in the same group next season before making his way into elite where he will join the likes of World Champions Steve Peat and Greg Minaar on the pro circuit.

This weekend sees the pressure ramp up as Lewis performs in front of his home crowd when the IXS cup comes to Innerleithen - the first time the hugely popular European series has been held on British soil.

But Lewis' coach Chris Ball thinks the MS Racing and Evil bikes sponsored rider has nothing to worry about, he said: "He's on home turf but as long as he enjoys himself and has the backing of the home fans I'm sure he'll have a successful weekend."

And Chris also thinks Lewis has a very bright future in cycling ahead of him.

"Lewis' performances this year have been fantastic.

"He's a very dedicated young man and is showing remarkable talent for his age. His upbeat approach to the sport is great to see and I have no doubt that over the next few years we will see great things from Lewis."

The IXS European Downhill Cup takes place in Innerleithen this weekend and will showcase some of the biggest names in the sport ahead of the Fort William World Cup the following weekend. Admission is free and there will be a variety of stalls and entertainment alongside the racing.

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