Warwick Township native Payton Ridenour has fulfilled her longstanding dream of earning a place on Team USA for women’s BMX racing, writes Caitlin Rearden for WFMZ 69 News.

The Owen J. Roberts High School graduate wished for this distinction since BMX first became an Olympic sport in 2008.

However, the 19-year-old had a busy several weeks working toward her goal.

She raced a World Cup in Italy, where she made her first final. A week and a half later, she sped her way to another World Cup in Colombia. This was the last qualification event before the Olympics, and Ridenour managed to make both finals and place second, securing her place at the Tokyo games.

“It was awesome because it came down to the wire,” said Ridenour. “There was me and two other girls going for this spot.”

Now that she has qualified, the pressure is off for this year’s youngest competitor.

“I’m kind of the underdog, so it’s really no pressure,” said Ridenour. “I’m just going in, having fun, and getting some experience.”

Read more about Payton Ridenour at WFMZ 69 News.