Here at MBUK we’ve always been into fostering young talent and helping to build a solid future for British mountain biking, so when we were approached by the GT Viris development team, it was a no-brainer to get involved. The five young lads on the squad are looking to hone their racecraft and build up to taking on the best, in the National Downhill Series and beyond. Find out how they get on this season by following them on Instagram and via updates on MBUK.com, our social media channels and in the mag.
The riders
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Logan Smith (left)
- Age: 16
- Category: Junior
- From: Coldstream, Scottish Borders
- Most likely to say: “This track doesn’t flow!”
- Goals for 2022: “Get a National Series podium.”
The racing-focused Scot just wants to go fast on any bike in his flowing style.
Luke Blake (second left)
- Age: 18
- Category: Expert
- From: Maidstone, Kent
- Most likely to say: “Do I look good?”
- Goals for 2022: “My first Expert podium.”
This former motocross champ brings some serious whips and scrubs to the table. The elder statesman of the team, Luke acts as a mentor of sorts, setting a positive example for the younger riders.
Oscar Griffiths (centre)
- Age: 15
- Category: Youth
- From: Surrey Hills
- Most likely to say: “Minnnt!”
- Goals for 2022: “Get a UK National Champs jersey!”
Oscar brings some Euro style to the table with effortless flow and a hunger to schralp every corner.
Felix ‘Jerry’ Griffiths (second right)
- Age: 13
- Category: Juvenile
- From: Surrey Hills
- Most likely to say: “Andy [Ward, team manager], can you just…”
- Goals for 2022: “Consistent top-threes and a National Series win!”
The youngest of the group, Oscar’s brother makes up for his youth with bags of energy and style, and a tenacious desire to match or surpass his elder teammates at every opportunity.
Lewis Duncan (right)
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- Age: 16
- Category: Junior
- From: Inverness
- Most likely to say: “I hate this track!”
- Goals for 2022: “Top-10s at National Series rounds and in the overall.”
When he’s not throwing big nacks and suicides, Lewis likes to go downhill fast! The Scot makes the step up into Junior this year.
The kit
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The GT Viris team are supported by:
@gtbicycles
@virisbrand
@mbukmagazine
@ridewrap
@troyleedesigns
@renthal_cycling
@michelinbicycle
@sprungsuspension
@workscomponents
@themudhugger
@mucoff
@betterbolts
@ratherberidinguk
@crankbrothers
@hopetech