Dartmoor Velo celebrates youth cycling success with international triumphs

A youth cycling club in Tavistock is celebrating a series of remarkable achievements from its young riders, including international representation, national medals, and European victories, as it continues to grow and inspire more girls to take part in the sport.

Dartmoor Velo, based at Mount Kelly School, runs weekly sessions for children and teenagers aged six to 18. 

The club currently boasts riders of all abilities, from those just learning to pedal to experienced young racers competing across the UK and Europe.

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Around ten girls now take part regularly, supported by a small team of volunteer coaches, parents, and helpers. 

“A friendly, encouraging atmosphere” is said to have been created at the club, helping young riders gain confidence and develop their skills.

Dartmoor Velo has also recently been recognised by British Cycling for its work in supporting girls’ access to cycling. 

New funding has been awarded by the organisation to continue offering opportunities for girls to train, race, and enjoy the sport in a safe and inclusive environment.

Among the club’s standout riders is 16-year-old Orla White, who represented Team GB at the Youth Olympics in Skopje, North Macedonia, this summer. 

Orla also won gold in the national XCC mountain bike series and silver in the national XCO series 2025, marking an impressive season at the top level of youth cycling.

Following in her footsteps is 14-year-old Aoife Scawn, who has been accepted into the National School of Racing for MTB XC, becoming one of just three girls in the UK selected to train on the programme.

ABOVE: Aoife Scawn, 14, trains with the national school of racing (Credit: Ezeekwheel photography)

Meanwhile, 11-year-old Bryony Medland shone at the European Youth Tour in Assen, Netherlands, where she won the overall general classification in her category after five days of racing.

Club secretary Emily Medland said the club’s focus on fun, teamwork, and friendships keeps riders engaged.

“We make the sessions about having fun and encouraging one another,” she said. 

“That’s what keeps the girls coming back. We also have female coaches, which helps make the sessions feel welcoming and supportive.”

The club is currently looking for more adult volunteers to help with coaching, ride leading, and organising activities.

“Some of the older riders are so fast we can hardly keep up at times,” Emily joked. “We’d love more adults who enjoy cycling and want to help the next generation thrive.”

Dartmoor Velo meets every Saturday morning from 9am to 10.30am at Mount Kelly School.