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Diolch Day at Wern Ddu Quarry with Paul Bolton

The sun came out yesterday for a superbly enjoyable and insightful day on enduro bikes with Paul Bolton. Paul, wife Lisa and Wern Ddu Quarry together hosted a ‘Sponsors Playday’, as a thank you to those who help Paul out. Laying on a programme of enduro experiences throughout the day, sponsors took part in enduro skills sessions, guided rides and some hands-on enduro first aid. Not to forget the flowing refreshments, hot lunch and end of day afternoon tea!

“As a privateer it’s just nice to give something back and show that I really do appreciate the input of those who help me. I don’t think it would be possible for me to race at this level without these companies and individuals. Whether it’s providing product support, allowing me to use tracks for training or making my race expenses more manageable, it all contributes to making it happen” said Paul.

This time last year, Paul took a step back from his full-time job as a HGV mechanic and driver, in favour of pursuing more bike-related work. His training schools have gone from strength to strength over the last 12 months, building a first-class reputation not only in the UK but around the world. Paul is an ACU qualified coach with advanced coaching certification and his training clients have even included royalty! “I train all levels of riders from beginners to those hot on my heels. For me it’s about tailoring training to each rider’s needs, so they learn exactly what they need to take their riding to the next level,” he said.

Paul and wife Lisa also run www.dirtbikespec.com  which they set up to sell and promote only products and services tried, tested and endorsed by Paul. It’s a port of call for advice and recommendations whether about tyre and mousse combinations for the next race, how to fit Tubliss systems or which is the best hydration pack for hard enduro.

“It’s still tough trying to balance work with time for training, but at least now it’s work that I love doing and above all, I’m getting much more time on the bike which I wasn’t getting before. At the end of the day, my schools fund my races, so I am willing to juggle things and appreciate that I have the opportunity to do that,” said Paul. The 38-year-old had arguably one of his best seasons to date in 2017, ranked 4th in the Red Bull Hard Enduro World Series, even though he missed one race. The championship highlight being finally getting on the podium at Red Bull Romaniacs after 10 years of trying!

So what’s next for Paul? “It’s going to be a big year with the new World Enduro Super Series which I am super excited about. My intention is to race the whole series, if I can make it happen. It’s a great time for the sport and I want to be part of this next chapter. It’s not all hard enduro any more, with 7 different races and new disciplines including cross-country, classic enduro and beach racing, it’s going to be interesting!” he explained. More details can be found on www.iridewess.com .

Should you wish to join Paul as a sponsor, he’s got a big year ahead, so just drop him an email at info@dirtbikespec.com . Information about Paul’s training schools can be found on www.dirtbikespec.com . You can also follow Paul on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @paulboltsenduro