The Chief Executive of the Council, Rodney Connor, welcomed Josh Elliott and his family and other assembled guests to the Chairman's reception held to honour Josh's exploits.
He told those assembled that Josh was a terrific ambassador for Fermanagh and that we should all be proud of what he has achieved in motor racing to date.
Mr Connor then gave a little background to Josh's successes: "Although josh is only 13 years old, he has already been crowned as Irish mini moto champion on several occasions.
The move from mini motos to the big bikes has been a seamless transition for Josh. At Mondello Park in may 2007, in his first ever big bike race, he qualified in pole position and went on to win the race.
"With such skill, talent and ability, Josh has very quickly excelled on the big bikes which has culminated in him being selected to compete in the Red bull rookies series.
Josh was one of three talented youngsters from Ireland who was selected to compete at European level at the Saxon ring in Germany where he won through to the final world selection event at the circuit Paul Richard in France."
Mr Connor went on to explain that over two days in wet conditions, Josh excelled himself.
"Racing took place in wet conditions. Josh had a very fast first morning, lying 5th coming out for the afternoon session. He had completed a fast five laps when a component failure resulted in the front wheel locking near the end of the front straight.
Josh was thrown off at over 100mph and slid for more than 130 metres before tumbling to a halt."
Mr Connor went on to explain that Josh was made of stern stuff, and told the guests that he picked himself up, shook himself down and got ready to race again on Day two.
"The morning session was again wet, but Josh lay in 5th position at lunchtime. He was the only rider from Ireland to make it through, along with two from great Britain," Mr Connor stated before going on to congratulate Josh on HIS fantastic performances over the two days on his 125cc Aprillia led to him being selected for the 2008 Red Bull Rookies World Cup.
Josh, you are a wonderful ambassador for Ballinamallard, for motorcycle racing and, particularly for Fermanagh.", Mr Connor added.
