Tony’s story – from Bike Club to mountain biking job

Bike Club in Scotland offers support and opportunities for young people wishing to participate in cycling. Bike Club officers develop personalised plans to help the young people taking part to increase personal and social skills.

Tony became involved in Bike Club in Scotland at the start of the year. He had been volunteering at the Cycle Hub in Stirling and is now a passionate mountain biker.

Tony jumped at the chance to gain more experience and qualifications. He gradually completed various training courses, including Ride Leader, Assistant Cycle Instructor, Bike Maintenance and a two-day Outdoor First Aid course.

Bike maintenance has given me the skills and knowledge to prepare downhill bikes and cross-country bikes to ride everything from the West Highland Way to Meall a' Bhùiridh.

Tony Burns, Bike Club in Scotland

The skills, qualifications, experience and confidence he developed while in Bike Club helped him to secure a summer job at the Glencoe Mountain Resort.

“Bike maintenance has given me the skills and knowledge to prepare downhill bikes and cross-country bikes to ride everything from the West Highland Way to Meall a' Bhùiridh," Tony said.

His goal for the next year is to keep building on everything he has learnt, to develop and progress and hopefully secure a full-time job at Glencoe, taking led rides.

He also believes that his time in Bike Club has helped him to realise the possibilities of working with kids, mentoring other young people and building even more confidence, on and off the bike.

He said: “I’m also hoping to find a job that will allow me to work with kids and help them to get a kick out of life. I would love to see something like Bike Club in the Highlands, in the villages.”