Bikers power way to glory
Two young Stirling Bike Club riders raced to glory in the ScottishPower Race Series at the weekend.
Two young Stirling Bike Club riders picked up wins in the ScottishPower Race Series for mountain biking at the weekend.
In windy conditions, 70 talented mountain bikers caught the eyes of the crowds as they competed in the Mini Downhill final after qualifying in previous events at Fort William, Comrie Croft, Aberfeldy, Innerleithen and Keilder Forest.
For Stirling, Crieff youngster Charlie Aldridge won the Under 14 Male race while Callander teenager Emily Field took the Under 16 Female race.
Emily said: “Some of the other Stirling girls have been putting in some great performances in the ScottishPower Road Series this season and it’s great to do the same. I loved standing on the podium, you feel like you have done your team proud. It’s great that my team mates are all here to cheer me on.
“It’s amazing to win the ScottishPower Under 16 Series race here at Fort William. I love downhill riding so much. I normally do cross country racing but downhill is just fantastic, especially here. Although the rain was heavy, it was a brilliant course and a great way to finish off the series.”
After a busy weekend, Bob MacFarlane, ScottishPower National Youth Racing Series Events Officer for Scottish Cycling, praised the performances of the youngsters.
He said: “With some of the best mountain bikers in the world in Fort William, the young racers involved in the ScottishPower youth series really managed to get people talking.
“It was a tremendous weekend and the series has produced a group of athletes who are well prepared for serious competition thanks to the challenges and competition they face throughout the year.
Many will make the step up next year.”