a conversation with matthew armstrong

The Cycle Sierra Nevada Scholarship Program was developed as a way to sponsor young cyclists that may not have opportunity or financial capacity to avail of a cycling training camp. In this section we take 5 minutes for a quick chat with one of the applicants selected for the 2016 program.

Matthew Armstrong - NORTHERN IRELAND

Who are you?

I'm Matthew Armstrong, I'm 17, from Northern Ireland and am currently at Friends' School Lisburn studying for my A levels.

What team do you ride for?

I ride for Dromara Cycling Club, they are my local team and have been very good to me when it comes to my progression in the sport.

Why did you start cycling?

I started cycling when I was 12 because my dad suggested that I got a road bike because he had one when he was younger and loved it. I was hesitant at first but thought, why not? After my first five mile ride on my new bike I realised just how unfit I was but I also realised just how much fun it could be so I pushed on through the rough first few months on the bike and started to go out with the club and have loved it ever since, it gives me something to look forward during the day at school.

Have you any other sporting backgrounds?

I used to play for my local football team when I was about 8 until I was about 10 and even scored a goal once in those two years… After that I kind of jumped from sport to sport, such as: tennis, squash, badminton, golf, running, rugby and basketball. None of these sports really worked out for me and that is when I discovered cycling and here I am today!

What types of cycling do you do and what do you enjoy about each?

I race road races, time trials, the odd criterium and have done a few duathlons before, but most importantly I race for 30 mph signs on a club run! With road races, I love being in a breakaway and riding well, nothing is more satisfying when you feel your training paying off. I love a good time trial because it's always nice to beat your previous time and more importantly your friends!

How many bikes do you own?

Two.

Favourite piece of cycling equipment/kit?:

I can’t just pick one. It’s between my Oakley sunglasses and my Specialized shoes.

Your greatest achievements on a bicycle?

My best achievement was probably 8th in the Irish national championship crit last year.

Your cycling heroes?

Phillip Gilbert, Tom Boonen, Fabian Cancellara, Jens Voigt and of course King Sagan.