NEWLYN'S Sam Bosworth has skateboarded his way to top spot of the first leg of the UK Vert Skate Championships, writes Kay Lockett.

This leg of the competition was held at Mount Hawke on Sunday March 1, where Sam rode to first place in the first of a series of four vert competitions for the season.

Sam, 14, finished second in the series last year and is looking to up his podium position and take the UK Vert Champion title.

Being the youngest competitor in the series he is up against some stiff adult competition but looks to be making a big name for himself in the international skateboarding scene.

Sam will be travelling to Tampa, USA on March 16 for a professional competition, then returning to the UK to compete in the next leg of the Vert Series in Corby on March 29.

The young talent also recently met with one of his heroes – Tony Hawk, performing with him at The Quiksilver Pro France 2008 Hossegor, staring in the Tony Hawk Ramp Skate Show.

Sam is grateful to his sponsors Quiksilver, Etnes Shoes, Plan B Skateboards and Ride Skateshop, for their continued support.

Kevin Parrott of the UK Skateboarding Association said: "By the time we reach the final round of the Vert Series in June, the level of skating is going to be off the scale! The number of young riders is growing at a rapid rate and the drive in these guys is unlike anything I have seen in many years."