2024 International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) was not just a race. It was an experience that tested riders both physically and mentally. For the England ISDE Team, this year’s event wasn’t just about racing, but about friendship, teamwork, and pushing limits. Their journey had its ups and downs, but in the end, it was all about sticking together.
England Team’s Goal: Success, Both Individually and as a Team
Steve Holcombe, one of the star riders on the team, made the team’s intentions clear before the race: “We’re aiming to win.” The England team came to the 2024 ISDE with a strong lineup, competing in both the Junior and Trophy categories. But things didn’t go as planned. Jamie Lewis, the team manager, shared his thoughts before the race:
“It’s getting harder each year to get factory teams to send their riders. Every year, it’s more difficult to bring talented riders to our team.”
Despite the challenges, the team set out full of excitement and motivation. However, once the race began, unexpected technical issues quickly changed their strategy.
The First Days: A Tough Start to a Big Adventure
In the early stages of the race, Steve Holcombe showed his usual strength, leading the team. But then disaster struck: Harry Edmondson noticed his bike wouldn’t start, and he couldn’t make it to the starting line on time. That technical problem meant he was out of the race, and the team received maximum time penalties for the delay. This was a major setback, as every rider must cross the finish line by the end of the day at ISDE.
Sticking Together: Team Spirit and Support
Even after Harry’s problem, the team stayed strong. Steve Holcombe and the other riders kept supporting each other. Steve reflected on the importance of teamwork after the race:
“Being part of a team isn’t just about wearing the same jersey; it’s about having each other’s backs and working towards the same goal. Even when Harry had his issues, we stuck together and were there for him. That’s what a real team is.”
While individual performance matters, this year’s ISDE was a testament to how powerful team spirit can be. Each rider focused not just on their own race, but on helping their teammates too.
The Real Challenge: Mental Strength Matters
ISDE isn’t just a physical challenge – it’s a mental one too. Holcombe explained:
“Anything can happen out there. Even when you’re doing your best, danger could be right around the corner. This year was tough, but it also showed how mentally strong we are.”
Steve’s words show just how challenging this race can be. A single mistake or technical issue could cost you the race, but having the team’s support helped England’s riders push through the toughest moments.
Harry Edmondson’s Battle
After the issue with his bike, Harry Edmondson faced another challenge: injury. He was hurt but decided to continue. Harry shared his thoughts:
“Physically, it was tough, but mentally I was still there. I wasn’t just hurt; I was mentally drained. But with the team’s support, I pushed through.”
This wasn’t just Harry Edmondson’s fight – it was the team’s fight. Throughout the race, teammates cheered each other on, showing the power of teamwork. “Together we succeed, together we move forward.”
The Final Days: Winners and Losers, But a Strong Team
At the end of the race, the England ISDE Team didn’t reach the position they had hoped for. Harry Edmondson‘s technical difficulties and other riders facing injuries and physical challenges affected the team’s overall result. However, their true victory wasn’t in the rankings – it was in the way they supported each other through thick and thin.
The documentary “The Journey is Ours” beautifully shows that for this team, ISDE was more than just a race. It was a journey of friendship, resilience, and working together.
Conclusion:
The England ISDE Team’s adventure in 2024 proved that racing isn’t just about crossing the finish line first. It’s about pushing your limits, sticking together through tough times, and never giving up. This team might not have won the race, but they walked away with something more important: a stronger bond and a shared journey.
