Riders of United States topped almost half of the 15 challenge divisions under 15 years old at the BMX World Championships held in Taiyuan, capital of China's Shanxi province on Thursday.

Titles of seven divisions went to the Americans: Bell Wyatt in boys of age 5&6, Wolthers Ethan in boys of age 7, Crowley Quentin in boys of age 8, Fuller Tyler in boys of age 9, Heffron Brock in boys of age 11, Volle Alden in boys of age 12, and Glynn Shayona in girls of age 13.

The remaining eight titles went to Japan, the Netherlands, Argentina, France, Australia and New Zealand.

Gao Wenbin of China managed to reach the semifinal stage in the 14-year-old boys' division after three trials in the qualifying round, but failed to remain till the end.

"I am feeling good, like flying," said the Chinese rider.

Gao, who began the BMX career just two years ago, participated in the event for the first time.

"I'm very excited, because for him it's the first time, and it's a very good opportunity for him to learn how to race against tops riders," said his father.

A total of 875 riders from 33 countries and regions are competing in challenge and elite tournaments of the world championships.

This is the first time for China to hold a BMX World Championships, a country which didn't begin the sport until 2004.

On Friday there will be competitions of challenge divisions of 15 years old and above.

(Xinhua News Agency May 30, 2008)