GATEWAY APPLICATIONS

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The Rayner Foundation's Gateway European Racing Grant Program

The path to becoming a professional cyclist often requires extensive experience racing in Europe, where the sport's highest level of competition takes place. Recognizing this crucial need, the Rayner Foundation (RF) has developed a special grant program to help promising British cyclists gain this essential international experience.

 

Why This Program Matters

Racing in Europe presents unique challenges and opportunities that can't be replicated in domestic competitions. The different racing styles, varied terrain, and higher level of competition all contribute to a rider's development. However, the costs associated with European racing trips can be prohibitive for many talented athletes and teams.

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Who Can Apply

The Foundation focuses on supporting the next generation of cycling talent through three main categories:

• Junior Men's Teams: Supporting young male riders as they begin their journey in competitive cycling

• Junior Women's Teams: Providing equal opportunities for young female cyclists to develop their racing skills

• Senior Women's Teams: With a special focus on riders under 23 years old, helping bridge the gap between junior and professional levels

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How Applications Are Evaluated

The Foundation carefully considers several key factors when reviewing applications:

First, we assess how competitive the team's riders are for their proposed races. This ensures riders will be racing at a level that challenges them appropriately without being overwhelming.

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Second, we look at the quality and prestige of the proposed races. The selected events should offer clear pathways toward elite-level cycling and provide valuable learning experiences.

 

Third, team organization is crucial. Well-organized teams can maximize the learning opportunity and ensure rider safety and support during international competition.

 

Finally, we review the team's complete seasonal program. This helps the Foundation distribute support effectively across multiple teams and events throughout the year.

 

Important Requirements and Conditions

To maintain the program's focus on developing British talent:

• Every rider participating in funded trips must hold British nationality

• The majority of riders must be under 23 years old

• The racing calendar must have a focus on mainland European races of a high standard 

 

The grant works as a partnership rather than full funding. Teams are still expected to contribute to trip costs, ensuring commitment and allowing the Foundation to support more athletes. In return, supported teams help promote the Foundation's mission through social media and race reports, creating a cycle of visibility that can help future fundraising efforts.

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How to Apply

If your team meets these criteria and wishes to be considered for support, begin by sending an email to info@rayner.fund to request an application form. The form will request the following information.

• Your team's official name

• The category your team competes in

• A complete list of team riders

• Contact information for the team manager or responsible person

• Your planned European race calendar, making sure to highlight which races have already confirmed your entry.

 

Understanding the Process

The Foundation operates with a finite budget, so early applications are encouraged to help with planning and resource allocation.

• Applications will close at the end of January 2026.  

• We will assess all teams, and advise those successful of our contribution   

• The first tranche of funding will be allocated at the end of February to support the races in spring and early summer.

• The second tranche of funding will be allocated at the end of June to support races late summer and autumn,  

• We will assess all teams, and advise those successful of our contribution at the beginning of February.  

 

It will be a condition of support that the teams (and riders) use their social media channels to inform that their European racing is supported by the Rayner Foundation. We would like to see race reports from each race.  This can be in the form of social media which will not only serve to inform the RF of the teams performance but increase publicity for all concerned. This helps the Foundation track the program's success and provides valuable insights for the future. 

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We will keep an eye on race performances and social media impact and withhold payment of second instalment if money is not used in accordance with criteria.

 

This program represents a significant opportunity for British cyclists to gain crucial international experience while receiving support from an organization dedicated to developing the next generation of professional cyclists. By carefully managing resources and maintaining high standards, the Rayner Foundation continues to play a vital role in British cycling's future.

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The Rayner Foundation - supporting riders since 1994

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