The Jim Ridler Bursary

About Jim Ridler

As a youngster, Jim developed a keen interest in cycling and joined Zephyr Wheels Cycling Club as a junior in Birmingham. In 1959, he became British National Junior Champion and In the 1960s, Jim represented Great Britain in the Milk Race and Tour of Switzerland.

In 1966, he rode in the Grand Prix of Essex coming in second place to Hugh Porter (who is considered one of Britain’s greatest former professional cyclists). Jim went on to win many races across the country throughout his cycling career and was even shortlisted to represent Great Britain in the Tokyo Olympics in 1964.

Jim was a co-founder and president of Stratford Cycling Club, taking on his first official position in the club when there were only a dozen members in 1985. Today the club has approx.  200 members, including 50 young cyclists who receive weekly coaching.

About the Bursary

Stratford Cycling Club supports the development of youth riders through a number of channels such as coaching, mentoring, discounted club kit, on and off-road coaching facilities and financial support.

Applications for the Jim Ridler Bursary are to be put forward by end of September for winter season and the end of March for summer season each year. 

Applications for this Bursary are invited from riders who:

• Are racing in National Series events.
• Competing regularly for SCC as First Claim.
• Are in at least their 2nd consecutive year racing for SCC.
• Racing in Juniors, Youth A, B & C in the coming season.

Each application should include:

• Summary of races and results from previous season (winter/summer as applicable)
• Race plan for the season (calendar of races)
• Training plan for the season (coaching sessions, RSR, etc)
• Aims for the season

Authorisation of applicants and bursary awards to be agreed by the Stratford Cycling Club Youth Committee which is comprised of a Youth Coach (who has no vested interest in rider applying), the club chairman, treasurer, secretary and one other committee member.  The maximum bursary award will be £150 per rider per season.

At the end of the season, bursary riders are expected to provide a short report of their season for publication on the club website and in the local press.

How To Apply

To apply please complete the Bursary Application Form and return to youthdevelopment@stratfordcyclingclub.co.uk. If you're not sure on the detail of how to complete the form then please ask your coach for advice.

An Example Training Plan