“Hi, I’m Duncan, a passionate BMX rider and coach based in the South Hams. I help kids build confidence, community, and skills through the joy of BMX.”
Why I Coach
My BMX Story
I first picked up a BMX bike at about 11 years old and immediately wanted to start learning tricks. It started on flat ground with my friends in the neighborhood and soon couldn’t stop wanting to be on the bike. I spent years learning the basics the hard way — falling, breaking the bicycle parts, trying again, telling my dad things would be different after the next replacement part and slowly finding my place at the skatepark through the years. BMX taught me resilience, creativity, and how to be part of a community: be it friends, locals or shared skatepark users. I love how BMX pushes your mental and physical abilities, the hard work paying off from working hard at attempting and learning something new.
My Coaching Style & Values
Now I coach because I want young riders to have the support I didn’t have. Whether it’s learning to drop in or just feeling confident at the park, I love seeing kids grow in courage and skill — and have fun doing it. I make my sessions friendly and positive to encourage kids to feel comfortable and have fun. I focus on building progress with each coaching session and a mindset that encourages friendly interactions all round.
I spent almost all of my high school time outside school hours down at the local jumps or at the skatepark, often the fist to arrive and not wanting to go home when it was time. I couldn’t get enough. I made friends through skateboarding and BMX riding, friends who I still have today and are still active in my life. Growing up it was a case of friends pushing one another to get better (and that’s still how it works today) but what I missed was guidance from someone who knew how to do it and encouragement and support. There were times where older kids weren’t nice or friendly and that’s one big reason I look to coach and teach kids today, showing that people are nice and the skatepark community is a safe and inclusive place.
My Credibility
I have been riding now for about 23 odd years. I have won numerous competitions, had various event invites to compete, booked for demo’s, had a run of small sponsorships and endorsements as well as being involved in helping create events. I am now certified and qualified with British Cycling as a Level 1 BMX Activity Coach and active member of the organization.
Testimonials
Gareth D.
‘‘Duncan gave my son Rhys a BMX lesson. He was great, very friendly and good at keeping my son engaged. He broke things down simply so that my son could understand and was easy for my son to talk to & ask questions if he didn’t understand. Duncan is very patient and happy to explain things again and again if needed. My son came away with lots of confidence and happy to have further lessons with Duncan. I would highly recommend Duncan for BMX lessons.’’
Chloe G.
‘‘First time my son has enjoyed a lesson! Relaxed, fun and interactive. Duncan’s own talent makes him want to learn.’’
Xavi says, ‘‘Good fun! I like Duncan.’’
Nick.
‘‘Duncan fits the part. Kids want to learn from the real thing.’’
Jon V-S.
This what Jon had to say…