OLYMPIC HOPES FOR CYCLISTS
CYCLING
HILLINGDON Slipstreamers has had three young cyclists simultaneously invited on to the Olympic Development Apprentice (ODA) Scheme for the first time in their history.
Harriet Mellor, Lorna Bowler and Charles Page will begin the apprenticeship with British Cycling next week at the Lee Valley Velodrome.
Club chairman Alison Grant said: “Everyone at Hillingdon Slipstreamers Cycling Club is so proud and delighted that three of our young riders have had their talent recognised by British Cycling.
“It is testament to all their hard work and effort and to their coaches who have helped to guide them and achieve success. I know they will continue to serve as excellent role models for all our other aspiring racing talent at Slipstreamers.”
She was keen to thank head coach Dave George for all his hard work in helping the riders achieve their success.
George said: “Charles, Harriet and Lorna have all shown terrific dedication to rise to the next level of Olympic Development Apprentices.
“They have worked hard at club level and shown potential at regional and national level races, that they have secured one of the highest accolades that an U16 rider can achieve.”
To be selected, riders have to show excellence at regional level and be put forward by regional coaches and the apprenticeship is one step closer towards reaching the ultimate goal of joining the Olympic Podium Programme.