Downhill racers are a special breed, and most aren’t just chasing World Cup dreams to get rich. But when we did our
State of the Sport survey earlier this year we were shocked at how little support many of the juniors and lower ranked riders are getting today.
In the absence of strong national race programs, it's World Cup DH or bust for many racers. The financial commitment of travelling and competing at that level puts the sport out of reach for many amazing riders.
We want to see a sport where talent can rise, rather than only the most affluent being able to compete. So we’re creating a Pinkbike World Cup DH UCI trade team as an incubator for juniors and riders on the bubble that need support to break through. We tried to make it happen for 2021, but there simply wasn’t enough industry support; coming on board with Outside has made Pinkbike Racing possible for 2022 and beyond.
Coached by Line Guy™ Ben Cathro himself, the team will provide the bike, cover all costs, and pay riders a salary that allows them to focus 100% on racing during the season. And with a multi-part video series we’ll pull back the curtain on pro level racing as we follow the team through the trials, tribulations, successes, failures, and glory of World Cup DH.
For the 2022 season we’ll be selecting two riders (one male, one female). We are already in conversations with several racers we think have great potential, but we’d like to open it up for applications as well. Interested?
FAQ
I’ve never raced before but I’m really fast. Should I apply? Probably not. We’re looking for racers who have had impressive showings at regional and national events. But your results don't need to be only in DH—if you’re destroying the technical stages in EWS races and want to switch to DH, it’s worth a thought.
Is there an age limit? No, but in general we’re looking for younger, up-and-coming riders.
What bike will I be riding? We will announce the team’s sponsors soon. The bikes and equipment will not hold you back.
I’ve got an offer from a brand already, do you want to match it? Maybe, let’s talk, but the idea here is to help riders who don’t have as much support.
Is Cathro going to misdirect everyone in his course previews now to give his team the advantage? Maybe.
How much are you offering? The opportunity offers more than just the money, but our financial support will be significantly above typical rates at your level.
Ben and the Pinkbike team will be reviewing the applications, but please note that depending on the volume of applications we may not be able to get back to everyone personally.
Anyway, a great idea.
Be safe be well,
Incognito Robin
Be safe be well,
Incognito Robin
2- Fat
3- No work ethic
4- Where do i sign the contract?
But is a lot of rippers out there that could compete with top riders if do not crash there brains out !
Us old people know what cheques are.
Cheques may be dead and cash not far behind, but fiat money isn't going anywhere fast.
I’m as chuffed for you Ben as the chosen riders. Good work!
Anyway... watch out.. your boss might come knock on your door to ask his bikes, car and house back...
- does Strava count?
Is there an age limit?
- www.eeoc.gov/statutes/age-discrimination-employment-act-1967... *cough*
What bike will I be riding?
"The bikes and equipment will not hold you back." In my career, it's always been the equipment. Prove me wrong.
How much are you offering?
Not taking anything less than Gwin-money.
Thanks, Incognito Robin. I won't let you down.
This is going to be awesome, hope we see Ben racing too.
Greg Minnaar is 40.
Need I say more?
Be safe be well,
Incognito Robin
In related news - there will be a eGravel Bike academy coming your way soon!
Be safe be well,
Incognito Robin
outside.breezy.hr/p/0cd73db2584c-executive-assistant-to-the-ceo
Be safe be well,
Incognito Robin
I had to go back and look but they did have an orbea in the 2020 field test.
All I know is it will be infinitely better than PBacademy
At 6’, He’s claims to have tried extreme reach numbers and apparently prefers 480mm reach.
Nah, I’m joking I just wish they would do that so we could all laugh at the old farts with a CAT 2 top 10 in a local race who are signing up like me.
Some of my best results are Strava KOMs - I assume that counts highly in today’s world of “social first”. Also, said KOMs are the result of multiple French lines at my local trails; again double points for me with the selection committee for both being a “line guy” myself and being “French”.
Hats off because this is an extraordinary project and I wish it will go only better and higher from here. Pinkbike doing the job the brands with the top budgets are not actively doing.
sethsimonyi-gindele.myportfolio.com/work
Also Pinkbike: Let's fly kids around the world.
Has anyone actually seen Ben in real life?
You can spot him in a crowd, as he if head & shoulders above everyone else!
How long are riders planning on being kept on the team before "graduating" to make room for new up-and-comers?
It sounds great buuuuut, what if the team provided bikes, equipment, mechanics, entry, and accom at each round? No salaries, but riders keep their winnings. Maybe they could run 6 or more riders at each round? It would naturally attract the up and comers who could save/raise a few bucks to get to the WC's, knowing they were sorted once there.
More personalities for PB and chances of breakthrough riders for the reality show!
Seriously though, good move! I like it.
I think that takes away from how good Jamie is by himself (and he is out there digging trails too).
My bad. Mixed him up with someone else thought he was part of the old sick skills development squad.
Henry has done pretty good too after being on the team. Ben has a good eye for spotting some good youngsters.
www.rootsandrain.com/sponsor17773/sick-skills/riders
No, but yes