Rider Profiles: Alex Donora
Alex Donora
Alex is a real newcomer to cross country racing, trying it as an alternative to the specifity of downhill. A tough wet course at Yateley won't deter him from returning to taste the delights of other venues and improve his position.
Age: 18
Riding for: Oxford University
Alex Donora competed in his first Gorrick at round 1 in 2009
to finish 111th in a massive Open field. [© joolzedymond.com]
When did you start riding? I probably got my first bike when I was really young, 3 or 4 years old maybe, like most kids I guess.
When did you get interested in mountain biking? When I was 13. I started going out with friends, and playing with our bikes off road, enjoying ourselves, especially on the downhills. This is my first venture into XC racing.
Can you remember your first bike? It was a small silver BMX, that’s what I used to use to huck about in the woods with my friends. It didn’t last long!
Is this your first race? Yes. I wanted to see what XC racing was like as I usually ride downhill. I rode the Open event, it was really enjoyable, but I still prefer downhill! I’ll be back though to have another go.
How did you find the race? It was great, really good fun. I’ve done a few training rides prior to this but nothing as long as this, it was tiring, but excellent fun.
How did you find out about the Gorricks? Through my university cycling club, there’s a whole group of us from Oxford Uni that are doing this, though most of them are experts.
Favourite Gorrick venue? Well so far it has to be this one, as it’s the only one I’ve ridden! I’ll be keen to come back and have another go at some of the other venues, then you can ask me that question again.
Best memory of the day? That has to be drifting on the downhill corners! There wasn’t much of it on this course but there was one long downhill stretch and that was a highlight for me every lap.
Future ambitions? Just to ride more Gorricks and improve along the way.
Favourite training ride? Anywhere, as long as I’m on a bike with friends.
23 Jun 24
06 Oct 24
