Road to Europe

Hello, I'm Gareth Burgess, I'm 18 years old and I live in Methven.

I am an up and coming Downhill racer currently riding in the junior class. And it has been my dream to race professionally, and represent New Zealand on an International level. Last week I received the first of many opportunities to make that dream a reality. I have been selected to race in four World Cup rounds starting in June.

these rounds are:

Rnd 2 Fort William, Scotland, 6-7 June

Rnd 3 Leogang, Austria, 13-14 June

Rnd 4 Lenzerheide, Switzerland 4-5 July

Rnd 7 Val Di Sole, Italy 22-23 August

As well as these World Cup rounds, I am planning on racing in the IXS European cups, of which there will be 3. And I am also hoping to be selected for the World Championships in Vallnord, Andorra on 31 August-6 September.

As most of you will know, it is not cheap getting to Europe, let alone travelling around it racing. Hence why I have started this page. After using all my savings and selling my car, I am still in need of $8000 to make this dream a reality. And with no support from CyclingNZ and only very recently learning I had been selected and the races coming up fast, the pressure is on to acquire the money to complete this trip. The money raised will go towards the rest of my flights, internal travel within Europe, Insurances, race entries, bike maintenance and living costs. Having this money will take the stress, and uncertainty off my back, and ultimately allow me to achieve better results.

You can keep up with my progress and endeavours on my Instagram: instagram.com/g_banga/

Please donate generously, to help me achieve my goal of representing New Zealand and starting a professional career.

Your support is greatly appreciated.