//RIDER PROFILE: RILEY

1// Why do you like riding?
I like riding because it gets me outdoors ad keeps me fit. I like that riding bikes has taken me all over the country and allowed me to see things I would not have seen if I wasn’t on my bike. I also like riding as I have made so many friends whilst doing it.

2// When did you join LEC and how long have you been riding?
I joined LEC in 2017. It was actually by accident as my parents were trying to take me to Junior Parkrun but went on the Saturday instead of the Sunday! When at the park we got talking to the LEC riders and the rest was history….

3// What type of racing have you done for LEC?
I started racing at in the Go-Ride league when I was in the U8’s and after a tight battle in my 2nd year I won the league. That same year I also raced at Spring in the Park, Finishing 3rd in the U8’s. Unfortunately due to Covid I missed both of my U10 seasons. When racing returned I raced in the Cyclocross league, Spring in the Park and even began racing in the warm up races at the national events my sister was racing in. I have raced in Scotland, Lancashire, Yorkshire but my favourite race off all is the Mini Paris Roubaix in France as I LOVE the cobbles.

4// Which type of racing do you like best and why?
I love cyclocross as I enjoy the MUD! I like the technical elements of cyclocross and like that you race both on and off the bike. The cyclocross crowds are also the best in all of cycling… in my opinion.

5// Which race has been your favourite and why?
Mini Paris Roubaix is hands down my favourite race. I really like the cobbles and think it’s awesome that I can go to France and race on a course that the professionals race on.Racing in an international field of riders is also funny as I have no idea what they are saying to me on the start line but we somehow find a way to communicate and laugh!

6// What is your best skill that you have learnt riding with LEC?
Technical skills such as dismounting and remounting are fun to learn as they really test your bike handling. I also like when we do cornering sections through the tape, I try to ride these fast and find it funny when there are lots of riders causing carnage and everyone is crashing into the mud.

7// Can you describe what you like about the club training session?
I like the training sessions as I get to see my friends and have fun. I think LEC has always been welcoming and always been about having fun. I like the way that the coaches know what racing we are doing and can make session support this.

8// In three words, how would you describe your club mates?
Fun, hardworking and supportive.

9// In three words, how would you describe the club?
Welcoming, friendly and brilliant.

10// When you are not cycling what else do you like to do?
I like to play my Nintendo, watch YouTube and most of all.. bounce on my trampoline.