Overcoming Adversity to Become an Elite Level Racer – James Anderson

Downtime — The Mountain Bike Podcast

Overcoming Adversity to Become an Elite Level Racer – James Anderson

James Anderson grew up with monoplegia. This left him with significantly reduced muscle development in his right hand side, as well as dyslexia and dyspraxia. James had significant challenges to overcome and a diagnosis that said he would never play sports.

Fast forward a chunk of years and James is now an elite-level downhill racer with his sights set on great things and a lot to thank mountain biking for. His story inspired me and I wanted to share it with you all. From the physical challenges to the mental health side of dealing with his condition, James shares an open and honest insight into fighting adversity and what you can achieve with a tonne of passion and determination. So sit back, hit play and listen to this episode with James Anderson.

You can follow James on Instagram @jamesanderson_15.

Supporting Partners

Magura

MAGURA is not only providing riders like Loic Bruni, Finn Illes and Danny Hart with the incredible braking performance that they need to race at the top level. They also make a setup that's still really powerful, but much more affordable. Their 4-piston MT5 brake offers an unbeatable performance to price ratio at just 100EURO. That's half the price of it's big brother the MT7. However, the MT5 still offers nearly the same stability and power.

Also with the MT5 you get to benefit from the MAGURA #customizeyourbrake program. That means you can choose from three different lever shapes, four different rotors and four pad compounds to adjust the brake exactly to your needs and preferences when it comes to ergonomics, stability and power.

If you are looking for a brake upgrade for the season, then get yourself more control with MAGURA's MT brake range. Head to magura.com to find out more.

Canyon

Canyon have just launched their new Spectral:ON featuring a range anxiety busting 900wH battery and a poppy lively ride feel that is super engaging to ride. What Canyon has achieved with this bike has really blown me away and the engineering and design really is next level. As a Downtime listener you can get free Bike Guard on any Spectral:ON orders using the code FUN-ON-2022 at the checkout over on canyon.com.

This voucher code is valid online between 12 April 2022, 00:01 CET and 3 May 2022, 23:59 CET. The code applies a free Bike Guard to Spectral:ON bike orders. It cannot be redeemed in conjunction with any other discount code and excludes Factory Outlet bikes and framesets. The code cannot be applied retroactively, and applies only to products available at the time of purchase. Cannot be redeemed for cash and resale is prohibited. The code can only be used once per customer. Canyon reserve the right to terminate or change the terms of this promotion at any time.

Podcast Stuff

Downtime EP

Downtime EP issue 1 is now available at downtimepodcast.com/ep. EP takes inspiration from the guests and topics of the podcast. It expands on them, and takes them into a stunning print-only format. EP is the perfect companion for some quiet time away from the distractions of modern life. Beautiful to have and hold, and a timeless piece of mountain bike history.

Just head over to downtimepodcast.com/ep to save yourself £5 off of the cover price with an annual subscription for just £20 plus postage.

Merch

If you want to support the podcast, and represent, then my webstore is the place to head. All products are 100% organic, shipped without plastics, and made with a supply chain that's using renewable energy. So check it out now over at downtimepodcast.com/shop.

Follow Us

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For everything video, including riding videos, bike checks and more, subscribe over at youtube.com/downtimemountainbikepodcast.

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On the Downtime Podcast, we speak to athletes, trainers, mechanics, brands and many others, to take us behind the scenes of the world of downhill and enduro mountain biking, inspire you and give you some hints and tips to help you improve your own MTB riding. Give it a listen and we're confident you'll find something to help you go faster and have more fun on your mountain bike! Don't forget to subscribe, give us a review, and follow us on Instagram, Facebook or Twitter to keep up to date with new episodes.