In April 2004 when Liam Everts was born, his father Stefan Everts still dominated the Motocross World Championship. Indeed, in Liam's early years, Stefan went on to secure world titles eight, nine and ten. Even after his retirement from racing, Everts remained part of the MX World Championship scene in the capacity of team manager, so his son Liam has lived his life so far in close proximity to the sport. Liam made his first podium appearance as a baby in the arms of his proud father, as a small boy he would cycle around the world championship paddock, and as a motocross contestant, he had opportunities right from the start that other junior riders can only dream of. And it wasn't just in terms of equipment that Liam Everts has been blessed; much more important were the experienced practitioners who taught him the skills of motocross. Coached by dad Stefan and grandpa Harry, Everts junior developed at a rapid pace. In such a near-perfect environment, it would be a surprise if Liam Everts had not turned out to be a young rider of great potential. At least, one would assume so. But as always in life, it takes more than mere opportunity. "Liam has shown a lot of enthusiasm and ambition right from an early age," explains Stefan Everts. "We never pushed him to achieve anything; the drive always came from within."

There is plenty of evidence pointing to Liam's passion for motocross, not least the fact that, at the tender age of 13, he flew to New Zealand on his own last winter and spent several months living and training with former motocross world champion Ben Townley. "We had contact only via Skype and Facetime during the entire training trip," says Everts senior. "Liam lived with Ben and his family, and all the time he was there, he continued his education via distance learning. He talked to Kelly or me on a daily basis, and he got on fine there. His schoolwork was good, and he improved his riding skills immensely."

Liam agrees: "I had a lot of fun in New Zealand and developed my riding skills. Things are going well at the moment, and I hope to win the ADAC MX Junior Cup 85 this year."

Although it is quite natural as a teenager to set ambitious targets for himself, he is aware of the risk posed by the huge pressure that automatically accompanies him. Even though his father and grandfather deliberately refrain from pushing him beyond his limits, the name alone weighs heavily on his shoulders. Ten world championship titles for his father and a further four for his grandpa ensure that all eyes are on Liam Everts, that every motocross fan knows him and that everyone automatically has great expectations of him.

The good thing going for Liam Everts is his carefree youthful disposition and the fact that he is accustomed to the hype that has surrounded his father and grandfather all the way through from his own childhood. It can probably be assumed that he will make his own way in the sport and continue the tradition of the Everts family. He has already taken the first steps on the ladder, and all the indications are that Liam Everts will indeed be successful.