BECCI Skelton is an Elite and World Cup downhill mountain bike racer. She is due to take part in the Insync StreetVelodrome event in Wigan later this week.

Why do you cycle?

I just love the freedom of it; there is genuinely nothing better than getting out in the mountains or tearing down a trail as fast as you can. Such a buzz!

What do you ride?

I’m sponsored by Transition Bikes UK; my downhill bike is a Transition TR11 and my xc/enduro steed is a Transition Scout. They’re amazing bikes and will take on anything that you throw at them.

Tell me about your favourite route?

Ah that’s hard. I’ve got so many; I love riding the Peak District, especially around Ladybower Reservoir; such a sick variety of steep techy climbs and descents. I genuinely can’t even choose a favourite downhill track; Fort Bill World Cup track is so brutal and fun, Revolution bike park has a bit of everything; Black mountain has its jumps; Bala has its speed. I love them all!

Tell me about your best cycling memory?

Fort William World Cup last year. I crashed hard and didn’t even qualify but coming down into the arena with so many people screaming your name is mind-blowing. It was also really special in a kind of sad way. When I first started riding about six years ago, I told my mum that I was going to compete in the Fort Bill World Cup and she was going to come watch me. Sadly, she passed away pretty suddenly a couple of months before it, and so obviously never got to see me. My brother came and I know she was there in spirit cheering me on, so that will always be my favourite memory.

What do you consider your most important piece of cycling equipment?

Apart from my bike you mean? My helmet; there’s nothing more important than protecting your noggin!

If you could cycle anywhere where would that be?

I love riding anywhere different and having new experiences. Next weekend I am am racing the Insync StreetVelodrome in Leigh, which is something I have never done before and am really looking forward to competing against the other pro riders. So long as I am on two wheels, I am up for cycling anywhere and everywhere!