Nickname: Ben

Age: 16

DoB: 25/08/1992

Jungle Home: Northampton

Monkey Status: Single

Occupation: Student

Ben joined us at the beginning of 2008. We spotted Bens potential a mile away and his calm polite nature along with his killer instinct on the bike amkes him destined for success. Ben finished in a creditable 5th position in the National Youth rankings in 2008 amongst a highly talented field of riders. He will join our two existing riders in the YDS as we look to help them reach their goals over the coming years. We are excited to have another talented cyclist who shares our passion and desire to succeed at the highest level.

Favoured discipline: Mountain bike cross country

Career Highlights:

4th Youth National Championships 2008

3rd Youth National Points Series 4 2008

1st Youth Midland XC Series Rd2 2008

1st Youth Welsh Dragon Series overall 2008

1st Youth Welsh Dragon Series Rd1 and Rd2 2008

1st Youth Midland XC Series Rd1 2007

2nd Youth Southern XC Series Rd2 2007

1st Youth Southern XC Series Rd1 2007

7th Youth National Points Series XC Rd1 2006

10th (all age groups) National Enduro Series 50km Rd1 2006

4th (all age groups) National Enduro Series 50km Rd2 2006

1st Youth Soggy Bottoms Series 2006/07

1st Youth Welsh National XC Mountain bike Champion 2007

1st Youth Welsh National Cyclocross Champion 2007

Best cycling quality: Climbing & Technical

Favourite Venue: LLandegla, Coed-y-Brenin, Newnham

Favourite Cyclist: Oli Beckinsale & Steve Peat

What bike do you ride: Cannondale CX9 & Scalpel 1

Who are some of the most important people in your life and career?

My Coach Adrian Timmis, Dad, Steph, my girlfriend. Alec and Sam who I do normal stuff with, Ian the big Ginger sky blue across the road who I like to watch falling off his bike. Oh! and now my team mates in the Orange Monkey Troupe.

Favourite place to ride?

Llandegla, Marin, Coed-y-Brenin, Newnham, Chicksands for dirt jumping and North Shore

Best moment on a bike?

2nd place in the National Series at coed-y-Brenin last year and doing the big Ladder Drop for the first time at chicksands.

Favourite riding position?

On the Bike!

Whats the best aspect of being a monkey?

I'm new to the team but in my first race for the Monkeys the support was great and I know they get around the course to support you. Also, after reservations about wearing bright orange, I now like the fact you stand out.

How do you eat your banana?

I hate Bananas, i'll need a plastic one to pretend with.