white waltzes wayto first irish title

The 32 year-old, who is one of the most popular riders on the circuit both north and south because of his flamboyant celebrations, secured the Irish Clubman MX2 Championship at Dundalk on Sunday.

Now White is hoping to make it a dream double this weekend by sealing the Ulster Clubman MX2 Class in the final round at Laurelbank.

“It’s a dream to land my first Irish title,” beamed Steven. “I’m over the moon. I’m so pleased to have done it. This year just clicked after I bought a new £8,000 bike and decided to put all my efforts into the sport.

“I dedicate the win to my family, especially my grandad Jib, and all my sponsors.”

Steven enjoys giving fans a celebration dance when he crosses the line but on Sunday he opted for something different.

“I just leapt off the bike and did a Jurgen Klinsmann dive,” said Steven. “I enjoy winning and like to celebrate with a dance.”

The football theme is no surprise as Steven plays for Portadown Reserves and once the racing is over he will be swapping the racing boots for football boots.

“My two passions are motocross and football. I have trained and played football on a Monday and Wednesday night and then got back on the bike on Saturday and Sunday.

“With the racing going so well I have not been able to devote as much time to the football but once the season is over I’ll be back at the Ports.”

Sport can bring untold riches for some - spare a thought for Steven - he has won £1,000 in prizemoney this season but reckons he has spent £30,000 to compete. And he has spent a staggering £80,000 over the years just to race. All because he lives to enjoy the challenge and thrill motocross gives him.

His crew includes his uncle Gringe White (driver), pitman Kris Ferguson, Jason McKinley and brothers Carl and Mark Dynes, sons of the late road racer Gary Dynes.

A former pupil of Waringstown Primary School. Lurgan Junior High and Banbridge Academy, Steven played football for Lurgan Town and Glenavon Youth before joining Portadown.

“I’ve played in every position, apart from goalkeeper, concluded Steven who runs his own business White Lightening Electrical Services.

Good luck this weekend.