Windsurfer Connor Bainbridge, 15, of Trimmingham Road, Halifax, is one of 10 young Yorkshire athletes chosen as a future star in 2012.

The Crossley Heath pupil – ranked fourth in England – was selected as part of an initiative to unearth the next generation of talent in the county.

And after being chosen he was whisked off to a glitzy bash in Leeds and invited on stage with medal winners from the Great British Olympic squad.

Proud mum Sharon said: "I think he was a bit awestruck by the whole thing but we're all delighted. Getting to meet some of his heroes was a dream for Connor. He had a brilliant time.

"Whether he wins a medal in the future or not, all this has been such a great experience.

"But he is back studying for his GCSEs now so that has brought him down to earth again."

Since taking up windsurfing at nine, Connor's reputation has rocketed.

In 2006, he won the Youth and Masters Sail Championships. In 2007 he joined the Great Britain National Junior Squad and has just been awarded a place in the National Youth Squad – two years early.

Connor is a regular at Halifax Sailing Club at Wainstalls, where he can be seen perfecting the Vulcan, a daredevil 180-degree spin through the air.