Courtesy of Red Bull Australia , I recently flew out of Queensland to Paris for a shot at competing in next year's Red Bull Rookies Cup.

What a sensational opportunity. On Thursday 22 November, forty-four eager teenagers from around the globe met at Paul Ricard Circuit in the south of France . This circuit is amazing: it is massive and houses its own sprinkler system to provide manufacturers with the opportunity to change weather conditions for testing, at will!

Talking about weather, the European weather didn't exactly resemble sunny Queensland . Around 12 degrees and with the wet stuff falling from the sky, we all new the day ahead would present some interesting challenges – and it didn't disappoint.

Without singling out any one nationality, each country's representatives dealt considerably well with the difficult and very slippery conditions. In the end it was these tricky conditions that inspired the Judges, including KTM's Harold Bartol and Metrakit's Gustl Auinger to call for an additional day's testing the following day.

After the warm-up session on Friday a riders briefing was called around lunch time. The selection panel then announced a further cut in finalists. The squad was reduced from 44 down to 20, and I must admit I was stoked to be one of the lucky 20.

A dry afternoon lay ahead for the finalists. Still adorning the wet weather tyres from the previous sessions, each rider was given one more opportunity to impress. This time each of the four group sessions progressed without incident, which made for a surprising change. At the day's end, an edgy wait lay ahead for each rider. It was time for the selection panel to make their decision as to who the lucky 12 riders would be. Unfortunately my name was not called, which I must admit was disappointing. But, as they say in motorsport, “That's racing.” All of the gang who participated in the trials were really cool too, and I'd like to honestly congratulate all of those who were selected.

Next year's Red Bull Rookies Cup looks to be a ripper, with a really good mix of international competitors - it's bound to be successful.

The whole experience was mad. Being invited to participate in such a professional and well-organised event; visiting a new country; getting to cut laps around a world-class circuit; and making new friends was a dream-come-true for me.

I'd like to extend my appreciation to those who made this all possible for me: Red Bull Australia , AMCN , Mega Motorcycles , McLeod Accessories, MAGS Spray Painting , Mantek Australia , the MRRDA , Honda Australia for providing juniors with the opportunity to compete in our great country, and last but certainly not least, the Stoner Family's Team27 , for allowing me to trash their RS125 on a number of occasions without a subsequent flogging!

As for what I'm doing next year. Well, to be honest I'm not sure. I can assure you, though, that I'll be working my clacker off trying to secure a ride.

Merry Christmas and thanks to everyone for your support and well-wishes. J

Ryan “Ryno” Dymond #119

www.RyanDymond.com