Continuing our 5-minute chat series, we meet Merlin-backed Pro BMX Racer and Preston-based rider Ross Cullen. A product of the famous Preston Pirates BMX Club, he is an extremely experienced and talented rider and has just returned from being part of Team GB in Paris.
Ross, you’ve just returned from Paris with Team GB at the Olympics. How was it??
Paris was a fantastic event, the Olympic Games are the pinnacle of elite sport and it was a privilege to attend my second Games. It was bittersweet, I felt in incredible shape and had some great practice sessions at the event, so it was hard to sit back and watch the race (as a driver reserve). I have very good memories on the track in Paris during the Games and also before the Olympics won the test event a few months ago. It definitely lit a fire in the stomach, I can’t wait to be at Los Angeles 2028 and be in pursuit of an Olympic medal myself.
What’s next for you? What races do you have coming up?
I’m planning to compete in the British Championships in Derby in a few weeks. It’s an event I always participated in as a kid and won several (6) titles throughout my amateur career. I haven’t raced a British Championship since 2018 due to other major events… so it will be great to be back at the event and racing for the title!
After the event, I have a week’s vacation in Greece that I’m looking forward to. Then I’ll be straight back to off-season training with some major goals in mind for next year but mainly towards LA 2028! I’m looking forward to spending some time on my Merlin Gravel Bike this winter and racking up some miles.
Is that the Castelli Roadie gear we saw you in? Are you changing disciplines?
I’m planning to spend a lot more time on the road…that’s something I want to incorporate into my training and preparation over the next few years. I bought some Castelli gear which definitely added a few extra watts to the bike 😉 There won’t be any career changes for now, there aren’t enough jumps on the road!
What do you do to relax after a long day of training or competition??
So far this year I haven’t had time to properly relax and unwind since the season started in January. So it will be nice to have a week off, maybe a few rounds of golf and a solid mental reset before then. I’m coming back to training.
On a daily basis, I enjoy spending a few hours on my road/gravel bike or even on my BMW motorcycle. It’s great to clear your mind and enjoy a moment of relaxation.
Last question now, what is your favorite piece of cycling gear that you can’t ride without?
I think I’ll have to say my helmet. This may seem like a very boring and basic answer, but they are the most important piece of equipment in my eyes. They save our heads every time we hit the deck and that’s something I couldn’t compete without.
On a more fun note…my bikes!! I love all disciplines of cycling and I try to ride road bike, mountain bike, gravel bike, BMX as much as I can. Anything on 2 wheels will always make me smile.
Ross, it’s absolutely fantastic to have you back and I wish you all the best for the future. Hope to see you in line in Los Angeles!
Ross was using;
Token C45 Resolute carbon road wheels
Kask Sintesi road helmet
Castelli ProLogo 7 long sleeve jersey
Castelli Entrata 2 bib shorts