Jay Fesperman, 16, of Davidson clears a rock gap on the course at last weekend’s nationals in Banner Elk. He took first in his age group. (Davis Nonno photo)

Sixteen-year-old Jay Fesperman of Davidson won the junior category of USA Cycling’s Mountain Bike Gravity National Championships last weekend at Beech Mountain. The race, July 19-22 in Banner Elk, brought mountain bikers from all over the United States to compete.

Fesperman earned the Stars and Stripes jersey with his win. (Gary Knox photo)

Fesperman competed in the 15- and 16-year-old class in the downhill event. His time (2:23.11) was the fastest of all non-pro competitors (in all age categories), and 13th fastest overall.

“It felt good to achieve my goal – I’ve been focused on this all year. It was also good to win on home turf!” Fesperman said.

Fesperman also took third place in the dual slalom event.

It was the second year that Beech Mountain Resort has hosted the national event. In 2010, Fesperman won the 14-under category held in Granby, Colo. The event moves to Angel Fire, New Mexico in 2013.

Fesperman’s teammate, Eric Vest, also of Davidson, raced in dual slalom and downhill events. Despite a crash that dislocated his wrist in the downhill event, he completed the course and is expected to heal quickly. The team is slated to compete this weekend in Snowshoe, W.Va.

Fesperman and Vest ride with GROM Racing, a mountain bike team of junior riders sponsored by Specialized bikes and Cornelius bike shop, The Cycle Path.

For more information about the USA Cycling’s MTB Gravity National Championships, visit http://www.usacycling.org/mountain-bike-gravity-nationals-conclude-with-cat-1-pro-downhill.htm For more information about GROM Racing, visit www.GROMRacing.com

Eric Vest of Davidson launches skyward in the dual slalom event. (Nick Gragtmans photo)