Help Support the VCL Junior Squad
Since 1964, VCL (Velo Club Londres) has been helping young people discover their passion for cycling, develop their skills and grow in confidence, both on and off the bike. Over the years our riders have gone on to many pursue many different career paths, whether that be racing in World Tour events or successful careers in journalism, business and the creative industries, with cycling still at the centre of their lives.
At its heart, VCL is a community, riders, families, coaches, and volunteers, united by a shared love of cycling and a belief in the power of sport to inspire and transform lives.
Why We’re Fundraising and looking for sponsors
Cycle racing is evolving. At junior level (U18), the sport has become significantly more professional, with top U16 riders joining well-funded development squads linked to elite teams. These programmes offer international racing opportunities, coaching, training camps, equipment and structured development. UK racing is unfortunately not at the same level as on the continent and with the ever increasing cost, pathways to top level racing are for many young people in the UK increasingly out of reach. Something that is exacerbated for riders in the south and south east due to relative lack of opportunities.
That’s where VCL comes in.
The VCL juniors have now completed a second successful season of racing. The programme included regional, national and international racing in European UCIs. These experiences are life-changing, giving riders the chance to grow, challenge themselves and pursue big ambitions.
For next year, our aim is to consolidate our position as a junior offering that provides the full spectrum of racing opportunities, and are aiming for a more structured and coordinated programme, to help the riders progress as much as possible. But none of it is possible without funding.
What Your Support Will Fund:
We’re raising money to support the ongoing costs of running a competitive and inclusive junior programme. These include:
Race entry fees (UK & international)
Travel and accommodation for riders and support staff
Coaching and training sessions
Equipment maintenance and race-day essentials
Subsidised support for families who need it most
Everything we raise will go directly toward helping committed young riders access the opportunities they’ve earned.
Why It Matters
We’re not trying to build an elite-only team. We're here for the talented and dedicated riders who haven’t been picked up by big-name squads, or who are still developing and need a supportive environment to grow.
Many young cyclists come into their own at junior level and without clubs like VCL offering structured support, their journey could end before it really begins.
By donating, you're helping us:
Keep riders in the sport
Reduce the burden on parents and volunteers
Create a clear, sustainable pathway from youth to senior racing
Show young people that their dreams are worth investing in.
Currently our rider funding is coming from parents, VCL and the Rayner Foundation and a team of volunteers supporting young riders and giving their time.
Let’s Keep the VCL Legacy Going
VCL has a proud history, but more importantly, we have a vision for the future. One where every young person with the passion and commitment to ride can have the support they need to race, learn, and grow.
Every rider has a story, here are theirs:
- Dylan Belton-Owen,
"I was a junior who was lucky enough to be a part of such an amazing team and group of people during my junior race days. VCL is more than just a team — it’s a family. The support, encouragement, enthusiasm, passion, and jokes were all perfectly balanced with the seriousness of getting our heads down, working hard, and ultimately racing to the best of our abilities.
VCL is a team I can’t thank enough. I’ve grown not just as a rider, but as a person and a teammate too. I learned something new on every trip I went on, which helped me develop as a rider and ultimately guided me into my first year as a U23. The team offers an amazing selection of races and something for every type of rider. It’s a team that allows everyone to show their true strengths and to race not just for the team, but for themselves as well — which is super important as a junior.
VCL is the most exciting team, and I can’t wait to see how it continues to develop in the future."
- Theo Sandell
'I joined VCL at the start of February where I was welcomed at the Mallorca camp. The level of support was great and we were straight into French national races. These races were key for development before UCI races. I have developed greatly as a rider with the huge level of support but also the group atmosphere keeping it fun. I am very excited for next year as a second year junior. I hope to win a French national race and be competitive at UCI level. These races are key for development before the U23 step up.'
Your donation, no matter the size, helps us build that future.
If you believe in supporting young people through sport, please donate and share this campaign with others who believe in youth development, outdoor sport, and the life-changing power of cycling.
For brands or businesses interested in sponsorship or partnership opportunities, we’d love to hear from you, please get in touch!
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Thank you for your support!
VCL
Every ride tells a story, help us write the next chapter!
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