Sixteen-year-old Jared Hill was chosen on the strength of his performance in three individual trials, as well as his exceptional racing achievements over the past few years, which have included British Champion and National Champion titles in 2022 and 2023, UCI World Finalist in 2022, and UEC European Championship Bronze Medalist in 2024, as well as UEC Cup Finalist in March and September 2024, and Superclass Regional Champion in 2024.

Jared is attached to the Norwich Flyers Club and a member of Pure Bicycles, and first took to the track in 2011, before the age of three. Both his parents have been racing for more than 30 years, while older brother Kyle has been involved in the sport for 18 years.

“You could say it’s in the blood,” said his mother, Abi Hill, who has enjoyed international success herself, and has several national titles to her name.

“Jared started racing in 2013 and had his first full season in 2014. The adrenaline of racing down an eight-metre hill is probably the biggest pull.

“He trains five or six times a week. This includes gym, track and sprint training.”

Inclusion in the GBCT Olympic Development Squad will enable Jared to take his cycling to the next level.

“Jared had three trials in October, November and December, which involved training and racing at Elite level,” continued Mrs Hill. “His results from the last two or three years, particularly at international level, were also considered.

“He will now receive support from British Cycling, including that of an Elite and Olympic level coach, and also support staff. Jared will also be involved in some European race camps in 2025.

“He has been given a structured training programme geared to helping his development and progression to achieve international success at championship level.

“He is excited, motivated and privileged to be part of a world-class programme. Jared would like to achieve Olympic success.”

The budding cycling star has also received support from Springwood, where he is a Year 12 student.

“The staff at Springwood have been a great support to Jared in allowing time off for events and training,” added Mrs Hill. “Also they have celebrated Jared’s achievements in assembly and occasionally shared his success on Twitter.

“His fellow students have also been supportive in sharing his achievements.”

“Jared has been a credit to Springwood High School over the last few years,” said Rebecca Davies-Mays, Head of Year at our school, which is part of the West Norfolk Academies Trust.

“He quietly worked exceptionally hard outside of school on his BMXing – I only became aware of his success from his mum when she emailed me. After that, she kept me updated with how he was getting on in each competition, which enabled me to share his success with the year in assemblies.

“Jared didn’t let his dedication to his sport affect his education. He continued to work hard and achieved some great GCSE results.

“We are all immensely proud of his achievements and look forward to seeing where this great opportunity takes him – hopefully all the way to the Olympics.”