Pro ambitions one step closer for Newark cyclist Rebecca Richards after signing for Storey Racing following ŠKODA DSI Cycling Academy promotion

A Newark cyclist is one step closer to achieving her dream of turning pro after graduating from a cycling academy.

Rebecca Richards, from Newark, has graduated from the prestigious ŠKODA DSI Cycling Academy and will ride for Storey Racing in 2022.

Under Dame Sarah Storey, academy principal and Great Britain’s most successful Paralympian, Richards experienced the life of a professional rider having competed on the Women’s Tour, Tour of Britain and Tour Series with the academy.

Richards was also educated in the performance, nutrition and media profiles required to be a modern-day pro-cyclist.

With her new team, Richards will compete in the National Road Race, Circuit and Time Trial Series in 2022.

“I’m excited to be re-joining Dame Sarah at Storey Racing. It is an incredible opportunity and feels as though I’m one step closer to becoming a professional cyclist and achieving my dream,” she said,

“I’ve enjoyed so many fantastic ride experiences with the academy and they are all tied together with a real sense of achievement.

“Riding a 140-mile stage of the Tour de France with the InternationElles, a day ahead of the men’s pro peloton, will take some beating.”

Dame Sarah Storey said she was pleased with Richards’ progress.

“I am delighted to have been able to offer Rebecca a place on the Storey Racing team for 2022,” she said.

“Her engagement with the programme has been exemplary and the progress she has made has far exceeded my expectations.

“I am very much looking forward to working with her beyond her time with ŠKODA and look forward to seeing her continue to progress while working with the incredible line up of riders we have at Storey Racing for 2022.

“My advice to Rebecca has remained consistent throughout the time I have worked with her — focus on a process-driven approach and the things that are within your control.

“Logical decision making is key and maximising new opportunities will always be important.

“By creating a plan that is both challenging but achievable she will be able to continue the progress she has made during her time with the ŠKODA Cycling Academy.”

In preparation for competing in the National Road Race, Circuit and Time Trial Series next year, Richards is warm weather training in Tucson, Arizona at the Homestretch Foundation, a charity to help promising female riders from across the globe.

Richards said: “It’s been a tough year for me with the viral fatigue that followed my covid-19 infection and the warm weather training over the winter will help me be in the best possible shape for the start of the season.”

Kathy Richards, Rebecca’s mother, said: “We’re so proud of what Rebecca has achieved during her three years with the ŠKODA Cycling Academy.

“The whole family was delighted when we heard she will be joining Dame Sarah at Storey Racing.

“Ultimately it is testimony to her hard work and dedication to the sport that she loves. We wish her all the very best of luck and will be supporting her all the way.”