Gowaan Youth Development Squad

Introducing the ALL NEW Gowaan Youth Development Squad!

A new platform, designed and delivered by World Cup racers (and winners!), for young riders to develop, build and learn, to help take their riding to the next level and into racing. Are you wanting to start racing Enduro or Downhill??

Gowaan in excited to open up this opportunity with the aim to nurture young talent, build their skills & confidence and provide the support, coaching and opportunities riders need to fulfil their potential with MTB riding & racing.

"Whether they’re just starting to dream about racing or already have their sights set on the start line, this is a chance to be part of something unique, as we help the next generation achieve their racing dreams!" - Chloe Taylor

The goal? To go racing in 2027!

As part of the programme, Gowaan will select some race events throughout 2027 for the riders to begin their racing and will benefit from additional support: Depending on the event, this could include practising the course with our coaches, getting tips from experienced riders, learning how to approach a race track and planning their race day. On site support all race weekend.

Riders will have the opportunity to explore either Enduro or Downhill, helping them develop their skills and discover where their riding can take them.

We will have guest riders come along to some sessions to inspire the kids, whether that is other enduro legends (new or old) or even some World Cup Downhill stars…watch this space!

Scholarship opportunities will also be available for a select number of riders who meet the qualifying criteria. These spaces will be awarded to riders who qualify, helping provide additional opportunities for young talent to develop.


All the info...

How does the program work?

  • Regular coaching: 3–4 weekend sessions per month (missing the first weekend of each month)
  • Session dates and times: Weekend day AM or PM (exact day/time tbc)
  • Location: Sessions will be based in the Tweed Valley, and riders must be able to commit to travelling to and attending these sessions regularly. (expect Glentress, Innerleithen, Cademuir, Yair, Galashiels etc)
  • Monthly schedule: Months with four weekends will have three sessions, while months with five weekends will have four sessions.
  • Price: The cost is £150/monthly with spaces being allocated/renewed on a 6 month basis.

Consistency is key! Riders must be able to commit to regular attendance to get the most out of the programme, work their way up through the Gowaan pathway and make use of the opportunities on offer.

Meet your coaches

Bex Baraona

2-time EDR world cup winner & multiple time podium rider & former Yeti & Ibis factory rider, with 10 years racing enduro at the highest level she’s got plenty of expertise and experience to share with the next generation. 

 

 

Chloe Taylor

A foundation built on world cup BMX racing, consistent National Enduro podiums, EDR world cup podium rider, and qualified in Personal Training. Chloe brings a unique skillset to the coaching team, with experience in many cycling disciplines.

 

 

 

 

Joe Varndell & Tom Wilson

Both brought to the Tweed Valley by the BASE College course and fell in love with the riding and racing here, both compete at EDR World Cups and both selected for Team GB Enduro World Champs. Both had have taken their riding to National level podiums. Their knowledge of the trails in the Tweed Valley are second to none, they get every high line or racing line!

 

What's Included :

Riders selected for the Gowaan Youth Development Squad will receive:

  • Access to world-class on & off bike knowledge and MTB coaching.
  • Regular opportunities to develop their skills, confidence and technique.
  • A welcome goodie bag
  • A race jersey
  • Exclusive discounts with Gowaan partners.
  • Coaching sessions with guest pro-racers & legends.
  • Support at multiple races throughout the year.
  • The opportunity to be part of a supportive group of peers with shared goals and ambitions.

Scholarship opportunities will also be available for a select number of riders who meet the qualifying criteria. This is a means-tested scholarship; recipients must show that personal or family resources are insufficient to cover full educational costs. These spaces will be awarded to riders who qualify, helping provide additional opportunities for young talent to develop.

Which squad is for you?

  • 🤟🏼 Gowaan Groms | Ages 9–11

    (Ages may vary by discussion with Gowaan.)

    The Groms squad will be all about having fun, building confidence and developing the foundations of great riding. Through regular sessions, riders will learn new skills, challenge themselves and grow in confidence, all while enjoying time on their bikes.

    Our focus is on creating a fun, supportive environment where young riders can develop naturally, discover their potential and build the foundations for future progression.

  • 🏁 Gowaan Youth | Ages 12–16

    For riders ready to take their riding further, the Youth squad will combine plenty of fun with a greater focus on developing as a racer, with no other than the highest level of mentorship with our world cup racers themselves, go check out the team!

    This squad is all about progression to help riders reach their full potential in racing and riding, with sights set on racing in 2027. Gowaan will be their every step of the way through this platform, providing support from race prep, racing lines, nutrition, training and much more.
APPLY

🎯 Want to be part of the squad?

To make sure we build the right groups and give each rider the best opportunity to develop, we’ll be holding selection try-outs on the 21st and 22nd of November - supported by Giro

Interested riders must complete the application form below to be considered for a try-out.

Key dates:

  • Application deadline - 13th of November: Complete the form below to register your interest.
  • 16th November: Successful applicants will be notified if they have been invited to attend a try-out.
  • 21st–22nd November: Gowaan Youth Development Squad try-outs.

APPLICATION FORM LINK HERE!

We’re looking for riders who are enthusiastic, motivated, keen to learn and ready to commit to their development. You don’t need to have everything figured out yet - we’re excited to find young riders with potential. help them grow and achieve their goals!

🚀 Let's build something special!

At Gowaan, we believe young riders deserve the opportunity, support and encouragement to see just how far they can go.

This is about more than just riding bikes. It’s about building confidence, learning new skills, making friends, challenging yourself and discovering what you’re capable of.

Whether it’s developing the next generation of Groms or helping our Youth riders take their first steps into racing, we can’t wait to get started.

Think you've got what it takes? Apply for a try-out and take the next step in your riding journey with Gowaan!