Lochaber downhill mountain bike rider Hollie Alderson can build on her dream of becoming a main contender on the British mountain biking (MTB) scene thanks to sponsorship from Highlands-based traditional building, restoration, conservation and engineering contractor Kishorn Heritage.
The 15-year-old from Roy Bridge is a relative newcomer to the high octane sport of downhill mountain bike racing.
Having first competed in 2022, she had already graduated to competing in the Scottish Downhill Association (SDA) race series and British National Downhill series (BDS) races by the start of the 2023 season.
Hollie finished in fifth place for under 19s in the SDA races last year and nailed an impressive second place overall in the youth girls’ category in the BDS, finishing the year ranked in second place nationally in the youth girls’ category of British cycling.
Speaking about receiving the backing of Kishorn Heritage, Hollie said: “I am super excited and just so stoked to receive the support from Kishorn Heritage.
“Racing downhill is my passion and the season past has been amazing. I have loved every minute of it. My confidence and progression is continually growing and I have learnt so much.
“The support and backing from Kishorn Heritage is a great boost and will help to push my ability going into next season and my dream goal of getting entry as a junior to the UCI World Cup series.”
The backing from the contractor, which is based in Inverness, will help Hollie compete in the 2024 Scottish Downhill Association race series at Innerleithen, Fort William (UCI Category 1), Glenshee, Ae Forest (Scottish Championships) and Glencoe - as well as the British Downhill Series (five races).
Kishorn Heritage managing director Daniel Tweats, said: “We are delighted to sponsor Hollie and help her follow her dream and fulfil her huge potential in downhill racing.
“A good performance at the Scottish and British series in 2024 will allow Hollie to apply for a British team jersey and compete in the prestigious UCI World Cup junior series in 2025 so we wish her all the best and look forward to following her progress in this pivotal year.”
As well as honing her skills on the trails at Nevis Range, Hollie travels to Wales to receive coaching from former Elite British Champion Beccy Skelton.
Her gruelling training regime sees her attend Crossfit classes twice a week, weight training once a week as well as twice-weekly cycles with West Highland Wheelers.
Although Kishorn Heritage’s support will make a huge contribution to what is set to be a crucial 2024 for the MTB rider, Hollie is still seeking further sponsorship.
Anyone interested in sponsoring Hollie can contact Richard on 07493683972 or richard@lochaber.contractors.
Hollie’s progress can be followed at www.rootsandrain.com or on Instagram at hollie_mtb.
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