Catherine Reid finished third at IAAF Youth World Championship

A backer of local sporting talent says he's been blown away by the strides made by one of his young charges.

Martin Bullock has been singing the praises of 400m runner Catherine Reid, who came third at the IAAF Youth World Championship in Cali, Colombia, overnight.

She also achieved a Personal Best time of 52.25.

The 17-year-old from Port St Mary has been competing for Team GB.

Martin sponsors her through his Full Factory Winnerswear clothing line.

Speaking live on Friday Sport last night, before the final, he said he was made aware of her talent by another top local athlete who he sponsors, Rachel Franklin, earlier this year.