Ella Conolly burst onto the Enduro World Series scene a couple of years ago as a young Scottish cyclist with a big heart, great enthusiasm and an infectious smile. Few riders in the modern race pits are having as much fun as Ella.
Source: cannondale.com
She won the 2018 junior women's world title by beating the competition, winning every single race. Here's Ella Conolly in a quick interview.
The first times
When was the first time you rode a bicycle?
The first time I rode without wheels was on a campsite in France at the age of three. My dad gave me a little push and I had no choice but to ride! I don't think I crashed… so it must be a success.
What was your first bike?
My first bike was a little blue thing with wheels and a box on the back to carry around my favorite toys. I'm pretty sure it also had tassels on the handlebars. It was £ 5 from a charity shop when I was two. It didn't last long - I soon needed an update to run safely.
When was your first bike race?
My first competition was at the age of 10. I had seen my brother run and I wanted to try too. I won, but there wasn't much competition.
Can you remember the first time you thought “cycling will be an important part of my life”?
Cycling has always been an important part of my life. When I was a child, we spent all weekends and family vacations on bicycles. I don't remember wanting to do anything other than ride my bike, I wanted to make a career, but it didn't feel realistic until I started training with British Cycling for the XC World Cups.
When was the first time you really got lost on a bike ride?
When I got my first road bike, I opened up a whole network of small roads to explore. I got lost every now and then but I liked the feeling.
What is the first thing you take when you go for a bike ride?
Snacks! I often end up staying out longer than expected which is not a big deal if I have enough fuel.
What was your first big bike trip?
When I was a child, we often went cycling with the family in the Alps. But the first trip that stood out was for a Junior XC World Cup in Germany with British Cycling. It was a ridiculously muddy race and I felt very freaked out.
Who was your first cycling hero?
Rachel Atherton. My earliest memories of seeing a race were at the Fort William World Cup and I remember thinking he was the coolest person. Total fangirl and she really set me on fire to run.
The last time
When was the last time you really got lost on a bike ride?
I haven't been lost in a long time, thanks to smartphones, not my sense of direction! It's actually a shame: always having maps and directions at your fingertips takes some of the adventure away.
What was your last race?
My last race was Crankworx Innsbruck in October. I raced in double slalom and downhill. It was my first real DH race and on my enduro bike - I finished sixth behind some fast DH racers that I was excited about.
What was the last bike you bought?
I have been saving for years to buy a carbon XC bike so that I have something light enough to race competitively. My mother has it now and hers still.
What was your last major injury?
I broke my elbow last year, which was my first real broken bone! While rehearsing for an EWS in France I had a large overbar in a rock garden and was flown to the hospital. I've been off the bike for about six weeks, but it felt like a lot longer.
What's your last meal before a big day on the bike?
A large bowl of breakfast porridge with all the toppings. It's the best way to start each day.
When was the last time you drove to a completely new and surprising place?
I was very lucky to be able to travel to some new places in Europe this summer between races. The prominent place is certainly the Pila bike park. I will definitely be back.
The best things
What's the best thing about cycling?
That kick you get when you go super fast downhill or nail a technical section. So I guess the adrenaline! He always puts a big smile on my face.
What was your best moment on a bicycle?
This summer in Europe. It had been a while since I'd gone to a totally new place to run. We have “raided” in so many places! It's the best I've ever felt on a bike and my riding has improved so much. Following riders who were better than me was great!
What was your best cycling race?
Madeira EWS last season. It was an amazing place to drive and I was having so much fun rehearsing. It was my first elite podium in my first elite season, which I wasn't expecting so soon.
What is the best trip you have ever done?
My trip to New Zealand to race NZ Enduro and Rotorua EWS! I was there for a month and I left for the South Island, then I went all the way to Rotorua with a couple of friends. What an adventure and such a crazy place. We then went to Tasmania for another EWS which was a really cool experience. I can not wait to come back.
Who do you think is the best cyclist ever?
Many people come to mind here. But as a pilot I will say Greg Minnaar. Having the most men's DH World Cup wins and such a long career is pretty impressive.
What's the best bike you've ever owned?
My current bikes now. It is impossible to choose one! I switch every day between Topstone, Jekyll and Habit and they feel the best of their kind.
Outside of cycling, who would you say was your best influence?
My brother! If it weren't for him, I probably wouldn't have driven as much or started racing. He is the best person to follow, he is so aware of my abilities and he gives a lot of tips and advice.
What would be the best advice you would give to a younger version of you?
Believe in yourself.
