In 2008 I started my race CØLLECTIVE with a no compromise approach to racing – last year’s XC race season was the natural conclusion of my own racing and the epitome of no compromise for me – I raced 48 times from the very first race of the season to the very end and hit the three major goals I’d set for myself. So what’s next? In 2020 I’m continuing my support of our two existing riders but looking for one or two more as well – Have you got what it takes?
I’ve made the decision to enter the odd race in 2020 but what I really want to do is add a young mountain biker to the CØLLECTIVE ranks. I’ll be looking to support a rider who races the same way I do – full gas, attacking, leaving everything out there. I’m looking for a Junior or first year Senior racer ideally who would benefit from the support that we can offer. This includes the chance to test and race proper bespoke custom race frames, discounted service plans, race support, training programs and generally a helping hand at regional and national races.
The ideal candidate can be male or female and should be looking to gain experience from the rest of us. They will need to be passionate about what they are doing – this is just as important, if not more, than the results as I can help a passionate rider achieve results, but I can’t train a race winning robot to be passionate!
Part of this is of course a good understanding of social media and how to get the message out. We will be covering the story of your year through various platforms and you’ll need to help by providing photos, videos and content.
I’m currently designing and prototyping a new version of the Roberts DOGSBOLX frame which was raced by national and world champions in the early nineties. The frame, which a successful candidate will have access to, features modern aggressive racing geometry, perfect for racing at the weekends and playing in the week. Again, the successful candidate will be involved in the prototype testing.
So if you are (or if you know of) a young rider looking for some support at regional and/or national level please drop me a line (eightbikeco@gmail.com) – I’m interested to hear what you can offer and if you have ideas about what we can do to help you. The whole process is two-way and we want to grow with you too so don’t be shy, give us a shout…
Photos by Huw Williams, Pip Jenkins, Cameron Preece, Geoff Waugh and Sportograph.
GLEN.WHITTINGTON
#aeightracer – Glen’s an ex-racer who still finds time to ride mountain bikes, road bikes, TT and ‘cross bikes for Southborough & District Wheelers. He started building custom steel frames in 2013, has worked in bike shops since 2002 and started racing in 1998. He helps out with London and SE Cross League and receives personal support from Helly Hansen, Geoff Roberts Frames, Four4th Lights. His most recent claim to fame is 13th in the British National XC Mountain bike rankings and 15th overall in the National Series whilst setting up the.æight.bicycle.cøllective – #aeightracer
GOT WHAT IT TAKES TO RACE WITH US?
We’re always looking for other riders to be on our collective. The #aeightbikeco is about doing things a little differently. We’re looking to kit our riders out with steel race frames made in Sussex. Whether that’s for ‘cross, road, crit, TT or mountain bike we’re offering the chance to have a custom steel bike made for you to race on – not just put together, but fully bespoke.
The best part is that we’re not asking you to leave your team or club – that includes racing in your club/team kit. We’ve got certain brands that we’d like to work with and that we’re adding to, but we’re open to suggestions and maybe you’ve got a sponsor or support that you could bring to the table?
We have some strict qualifying criteria but don’t be put off by this – if you’re interested in being part of the #aeightbikeco then please get in touch by emailing your racing CV to eightbikeco@gmail.com