Talented athlete and sports science student chosen to compete in European cycling competition
Newcastle College learner, Joshua Jackson-Fowell, will be part of a team of eight representing Great Britain when he competes in the Ain Bugey Valromey Tour in France next month.
Consisting of five stages and taking place between 12-16 July, the gruelling competition will see teams of junior cyclists come together from all corners of the globe to compete in this high-level sporting event.
Joshua, who is on our Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS), has been cycling since he was eight years old. He said: “I’ve been cycling for as long as I can remember but it was my grandad who got me into racing at eight. He raced when he was younger so that was my introduction to the sport and I’ve been cycling and racing ever since.
“I’ve always loved riding my bike and I’m quite competitive so I enjoy those elements of the sport and I really love pushing myself to see what I can achieve.
“My current training routine is pretty intense, I probably spend around 17 to 18 hours a week cycling and I do a bit around Derby’s velodrome and lot on my turbo trainer at home. At least at home I can have a fan on because it’s been pretty tough in the heat recently.”
Josh currently rides for the Nottingham-based BCC Race Team, an elite junior club which aims to help riders reach the highest levels in racing. He is also a guest rider with Fensham Howes-MAS Design Junior team based in Yorkshire which provide opportunities for talented cyclists to take part in national series, elite circuit races, national junior track championships and UCI races abroad.
Next month he will join eight of his team mates from Fensham Howes-MAS Design Junior team as they proudly represent Great Britain in the French competition.
“I’m a bit nervous but I’m sure it’ll be ok,” continued Josh, “I race with the team currently so we all know each other so it’ll be good.
“I’ve had a look at the routes and there’s a few hilly tracks and a 16km hill climb through the French Alps so it’ll be tough but I’m looking forward to it.”
As one of the youngest in the group having just turned 17, Josh and the team will be up against the best young cyclists from around the world. But already holding a plethora of titles and competitive times; including National Champion and National Series winner, team GB stand an excellent shot.
Todd Bailey, Curriculum Manager in Sport and Public Services added: “Joshua has had a tremendous year both in elite sport and with his studies.
“Our Student of the Month winner for September, Joshua continued to develop his knowledge and understanding in sport and exercise, while developing skills that will serve him well in the future and in a role within elite sport.
“Part of our Talented Athlete Scholarship Scheme (TASS), Joshua has had the opportunity to continue his training and to compete at National level, with his most recent success being an invitation to the competitions in France and Belgium this summer which indicates his phenomenal talent and dedication to his sport.
“We are fortunate and incredibly proud to have such a high level athlete within the college community, and will continue to support Joshua and his development, mirroring his drive and determination to be the best.”
Team Principal at BCC, John McCay, added: "We were delighted that Joshua came joined BCC Race Team last year. Joshua is a talented rider with immense talent and determination on and off the bike.
"It is as important to develop the right behaviours as it is about improving his race craft and we are pleased that Joshua embraces that philosophy. With this good mindset we have no doubt that Joshua will do everything in his power to achieve his racing ambitions."