Canterbury motorcycle ace Jake Lewis is still only a teenager but he's ready to branch out in search of international acclaim.
The 17-year-old from Rangiora has immense potential and possibly a big future ahead after winning national motorcycle road-race titles in two consecutive seasons - he picked up the New Zealand 125GP title last year and then collected the 600 superstock crown at the fifth and final round of the Superbike Championships in Taupo just over a week ago.
In both instances he was making his debut in the class.
This year he was riding a Bob McCleary Yamaha R6, a huge leap in horsepower from the 125cc bike he rode a season ago, but he's a quick learner and certainly lacks for nothing in the talent and bravery departments.
He won the 600cc superstock title this year with a race to spare.