I started the year by transferring to the world’s number-one junior women’s team – Shibden Hopetech Apex RT.
My teammate and friend Cat Ferguson won the Junior World Title in September, and we were British Continental’ Team of the Year’.
This move helped me because I always got the best advice from the best riders.
I had a consistent season, I placed well in the National A Grand Prix races and won and podiumed in competitive National B Races.
Additionally, I performed well in Europe, where I have struggled with the huge pelotons on narrow roads. I placed 6th at Ghent and 28th at Flanders, although I struggled at Gevauden, France, and had a mechanical in Bizkai, Spain.
I finished my season in Ireland at the Women’s Ras na mBan stage race with several top 10s and a solid GC finish.
As a result of my consistency, I was offered Continental Contracts with the three teams, and I am signing for 2025 with the team that won the Ras, the Lancaster Grand Prix and the Ryedale Grand Prix, plus others.
I will be the youngest rider as they have some fantastic talent aged 20 to 30 and race regularly in Europe.
Importantly, I did not forget my education. This year, I also completed my BTEC and passed with a Double Distinction Star, so I have plenty of UCAS points if I want to go to university.
I intend to see how 2025 and 2026 go before I consider doing anything other than cycling.
Thanks to Thornton for their support; they are always interested in hearing how I am doing, which is most appreciated.
Merry Christmas,
Ruby
