We will take a different yet arguably more exciting approach in 2024, focusing on one of the fastest-growing disciplines in the world of sport at the moment: Gravel racing. This will provide the opportunity to race and ride within a globally popular, diverse, and inclusive community while showcasing Thornton Financial to a wider audience.
At the end of 2023, on a personal level, I decided it was best for me to remove myself and leave Saint Piran. There were several reasons behind this, including mistreatment, unpaid wages and becoming an environment I no longer wished to be associated with but I believe there is always something to take from any situation, positive or negative.
Following this, I took some time to reflect and analyse what I wanted to do next, aligning with the ever-changing landscape of professional cycling and my choice to pursue gravel racing as a privateer means I can blend racing at International level with a more diverse and community-driven discipline, which is why it has proven so popular in recent years, not to mention the additional coverage it receives from media outlets and across social platforms.
One of the compelling aspects of gravel racing is its inclusive nature. For example, in many of the events, including the UCI World Series races I hope to compete in, entries are open to riders of all levels who desire to participate. So, whilst I could be racing with some of the best riders in the world at the front, others may be riding just to finish the event at the back, then all coming together afterwards for a festival-style awards ceremonies, which, in my opinion, is a refreshing approach and an amazing way to make new connections, share stories and promoting the invaluable support provided by sponsors.
I have secured some sponsors to help provide the essential kit/equipment and have planned out a race calendar I feel is most beneficial, including a maximum of three UCI Gravel World Series events in UK and Europe, with the aspirations of qualifying for the World Championships in October, in addition to that, the British National Championships, Dirty Reiver, Griduro and Battle on the Beach are a few other notable events, although may depend on budgets and considerations such as travel and entry fees. I will also be doing selected road events, such as the National Championships and National Road Series, for which I have secured team support.
