Ralph Croft. Photo from Samuel Poole
Brixham College student loving life on the bike
Racing around a track at 120mph, loving every thrill-seeking second and thriving off the intense competition is beyond the comprehension of most people.
Now imagine taking on this pulsating challenge as a teenage motorbike racer.
Brixham College student Ralph Croft is already making tyre-marks on a breathless dream that began by riding quadbikes and going on motorbike rides.
Next on his sporting menu was solo riding, which started off on a 50cc bike with speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Now, the young sportsman rides a Kawasaki Ninja 300, the largest engine acceptable within his class, with top speeds of 120 miles per hour logged at various tracks.
"I love the thrill of riding at the speeds I do now. Motorbike racing is unique sport compared, so I have found that when I shared my story about motorbike racing, I stood out" Ralph said.
"It’s very nerve-wracking for my mum to see me on the track, but she’s one of my best supporters. My whole family and friends have been hugely supportive. When they’re happy, I’m happy."
Ralph has competed in several motorcycle racing tournaments that have presented opportunities across the country, including at Cadwell Park Circuit in Lincolnshire, which many racing professionals experience early in their sporting careers.
But when things don’t necessarily go as expected, Ralph’s attitude towards overcoming obstacles is admirable. He said: "Sometimes when I’m not achieving what I anticipate, I go and sit in the caravan and talk my frustrations through with my dad. He used to race and has experienced all the tracks I ride, so he knows it’s a hard thing to do, and once you have that barrier of things getting really difficult, you just have to sit down, relax, and overcome it."
Ralph is also grateful for the support he receives from his school, Brixham College. The College has helped wherever possible to ensure Ralph can compete in competitions as well as stay up to date with his studies and school experiences.
It is an incredible journey for young Ralph and one that will gather pace with every racing experience.
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