The Auto-Cycle Union (ACU) is proud to confirm Drew Stock, Lucas Moncrieff and Hayden Statt as the first riders that have been selected to join its new High Performance Academy programme in the Motocross discipline.
The ACU High Performance Academy initiative was launched last month and its mission is to support the development of standout riders (across multiple disciplines) so they can be successful at international level.
Motocross is the first discipline to induct its Academy riders. The ACU’s experienced coaches and the performance team at Loughborough Sport will work closely with the riders and their teams. Programme content includes performance training camps, structured development sessions, and support at EMX race weekends.
Stock, Moncrieff and Statt (pictured left to right) have been selected after a detailed review of athletes aged 13-17 competing in the MXGB Championship and EMX 125 competition. Each has shown strong results and the potential to compete at the highest levels of the sport.
The riders met for their first High Performance Academy training camp at FatCats Motopark in Doncaster last week.
The programme will be led by ACU Motocross Academy Senior Coach Stephen Sword and supported by Tommy Searle. Sword is a former Grand Prix winner, multiple British champion and three-time Motocross of Nations team member.
Searle is a five-time British champion, the current MX2 title holder, and one of the most successful British motocross riders of his generation.
Stephen Sword said: “It is a real privilege to have been appointed as Senior Coach of the ACU High Performance Academy for Motocross. My goal is to work closely with the selected riders to elevate and educate them on what is required to compete at the highest level.
"The interest and focus the riders showed on our first academy day was very encouraging. It gives me confidence that they understand what the academy represents. We are looking forward to seeing how they develop during the coming seasons.”
Tommy Searle added: “I’m really happy to help and assist where I can. It would be great to see young British riders competing at the front of MXGP again. After spending a day with the riders, it was clear they have the desire to succeed, and that commitment also comes from their families.”
Mark Chamberlain, ACU Motocross Performance Director, said: “I’m proud to be involved in this ACU project. It creates a clear pathway for young riders who want to progress in the sport.
“Stephen, Tommy and the wider team will support these riders in every way we can. Our focus is on helping them develop the skills and experience required to compete successfully at the highest level.”