A FORMIDABLE young fighter has triumphed in a national competition in the latest stage of a stunning start to his competitive career.

Noah Waddell claimed gold at the recent Boxing Scotland National Development Championships in Motherwell in what was just the third fight of his budding boxing career.

The 13-year-old's latest victory was in the intermediate category, a step up from the novice class which he has previously won.

Robert McMaster, who coaches Noah at Inverclyde Boxing Club, is tipping the youngster to go far.

He said: "This is really impressive, as it was only his third fight.

"He's very dedicated - if he's not training with me at boxing, he's working with his dad.

"This was a great win for him, the club and for Inverclyde.

"I'm really proud of him and we're hoping he can win again in the near future.

"Noah is a great talent and his feet are on the ground, he doesn't get carried away.

"He's fast, fit, mobile and always in shape.

"We've got a few boys and girls that are really good and he's one of them for sure."

Noah's latest triumph was no small feat, with his opponent having won at a districts tournament just the week before.

It was also a nervous affair for his father Mark who watched on from the crowd.

Mark said: "It was a tough experience to just sit and watch but he fought really well and it was a fantastic result.

"He's really dedicated in training and I'm really proud of him."

Noah told the Tele that the big win felt fantastic, but added that he was already focused on his next challenge.

He added: "I've been training for months for this with Rab and my dad and now I've won I am so happy.

"It feels great to make my dad and coaches proud.

"I had a lot of nerves before the fight and the pressure was really on.

"The buzz from winning is what keeps me coming back for more."