The UK race season roared into life this past weekend with sun-drenched trails, fresh race vibes, and Privateer riders charging straight onto the podium. With events taking place from Scotland to the South, it was a full-throttle start to the year for both downhill and enduro fans.
Race Weekend Round-Up
On April 6th, the racing calendar kicked off with not one, but two major events at opposite ends of the country.
Up north in Innerleithen, round one of the Scottish Downhill Association (SDA) series got underway. Meanwhile, the south played host to the first round of the Southern Enduro in Milland, where riders tackled flowing trails and tight transitions under sunny skies.
Privateers on the Charge in Innerleithen
Flying the Privateer flag in Scotland, Joe Connell and Christo Gallagher both came out swinging.
Joe was back between the tape on his Fox 40-equipped Privateer 161, lining up against heavy hitters like Reece Wilson. He stormed into 6th place — a solid start to the SDA season and a strong ride ahead of Pinkbike's Ben Cathro.
Meanwhile, Christo Gallagher didn’t just race — he won his class, piloting a stock Privateer 161. That’s right, straight off the shop floor and onto the top step. No fancy mods. No excuses. Just raw speed.
Fast & Fun Down South
At the other end of the country, it was all smiles and race plates as Andi Sykes, The Rider Firm’s very own marketing manager, lined up for the Southern Enduro — racing in the ever-competitive Fun class, of course. Going bar-to-bar with Off.road.cc tech editor Liam Mercer, Andi pulled off a class win, crossing the line just ahead of his fellow media mate.
What's next?
This is just the beginning. We’ll be bringing you more Privateer race results and behind-the-scenes action as the season ramps up.
Thinking about your own race season? If you’re in the market for a bike that’s ready to race, and ready to win, check out the Privateer 161 and Privateer 141 — built for speed, built to last.
