In the next in our series of 5 Minute Chats, we catch up with Merlin supported rider, Pro BMX Racer and Preston based rider Ross Cullen. A product of the famous Preston Pirates BMX Club, he is hugely experienced and talented rider and is fresh back from being with Team GB in Paris.
Ross, you’re just back fresh from Paris with Team GB at the Olympics. How was it?
Paris was a fantastic event, the Olympic Games is the pinnacle of elite sport and it was a privilege to be at my second games. It was bitter sweet, I felt in amazing form out there and had some great practice sessions at the event so it was hard to sit and watch the racing (as the reserve rider). I have some great memories at the Paris track during the games and also pre Olympic Games winning the test event a few months ago. It has definitely lit a fire in the stomach, I cannot wait for LA 2028 and to be in the chase for an Olympic Medal myself.
What’s next for you? What races have you got coming up?
I am planning on racing the British Championships in Derby in a few weeks. It’s an event I always competed in as a kid and I have won multiple (6) titles throughout my amateur career. I have not raced a British Championship since 2018 due to other major events… so it will be great to be back at the event and race for the title!
After the event, I have a one week holiday coming up in Greece that I am looking forward to. Following that I will be stuck straight back into off season training with a few major goals in mind for next year but mainly towards LA 2028! I can’t wait to spend some time on my Merlin Gravel Bike this winter putting the miles in.
Is that Castelli Roadie gear we saw you in? Are you changing discipline?
I am looking at Spending a lot more time on the road… it’s something I want to incorporate into my training and prep in the next few years. I picked up some Castelli gear which definitely added a few extra watt’s on the bike 😉 There won’t be any career changes as of yet, there aren’t enough jumps on the road!
What do you do to relax and unwind after a long day of training or competition?
So far this year, I haven’t had the time to wind down and relax properly since the season started in January.. so it will be nice to get a week on Holiday, maybe a few rounds of Golf and a solid mental reset before I come back into training.
On a daily basis, I enjoy getting a few hours out on my road / gravel bike or even my BMW Motorbike. It’s great to clear the mind and enjoy some time out.
Last Question now, What’s your favourite piece of cycling gear that you can’t ride without?
I think I will have to say my helmet. It may seem a very boring and basic answer, but they are the most important piece of equipment in my eyes. They save our heads every time we hit the deck and it’s something I couldn’t compete without.
On a more fun note… my bikes!! I love all disciplines of cycling and try to get out on my road bike, mountain bike, gravel bike, BMX Bikes as much as I can. Anything on 2 wheels will always bring a smile onto my face.
Ross, absolutely fantastic to catch up with you and all the best for the future. Hopefully see you lining up in LA!
Ross was using;
Token C45 Resolute Carbon Road Wheels
Kask Sintesi Road Helmet
Castelli ProLogo 7 Long Sleeve Jersey
Castelli Entrata 2 Bib Shorts
