Wightlink Cycle Race Team riders Finley Manser-Grundy and Sonny Shuttleworth ended their 2025 downhill mountain biking season on a high at the final round of the British Cycling Go-Ride 417 Flyup Bike Park Downhill Series in Gloucestershire over the weekend.
Finley, competing in the Under-9 category, went into the final round with two strong results already under his belt. His first run of the day was quick enough to put him within 0.30 seconds of the race leader, setting up a tight battle for the top step of the podium.
Pushing hard on his second run, Finley shaved off another full second from his time, but was narrowly edged out and finished 2nd on the day by just 0.40 seconds.
Despite missing out on the final race win, Finley’s consistent results across the series earned him the overall title, securing him the 2025 Series Champion crown in the U9 division.
Jack Manser-Grundy, Finley’s father, has said:
“Throughout the series, Finley showcased remarkable consistency, skill, and courage, especially impressive given his age in that category.
“He showed the ability to adapt to varying track conditions and maintain top-tier performance over the year which made him the standout rider. We’re really excited about what next year will bring!”
Article continues below this advertisement
Teammate Sonny Shuttleworth competed in the U13 category and showed strong determination in a competitive 22-rider field. He placed 18th, rounding off a solid first season with the Wightlink CRT team. Racing took place on a newly revived trail, and light overnight rain made for grippy, fast conditions that tested riders’ handling skills.
Sonny’s father, Orion Shuttleworth, has said:
“Over the winter, Sonny is set to put in a lot of training and a move up to a larger-wheeled bike next season could unlock more speed and stability, putting him on a more even playing field with the rest of the riders in his age group, who were all on larger-wheeled bikes.
“All in all, it was a very positive weekend for Sonny and Wightlink CRT. He’s shown great commitment this year and given us plenty to look forward to next season.”
Thanks have been extended to team sponsors Wightlink (Isle of Wight Ferries), Island Renewables, Wight Mountain, Rapanui and Kreative Studios for their continued support.
