Katman at the launch of the Freshnlo Pedal for Scotland with Kelly Cates
Bishopbriggs BMXer, Katman (aka Christopher Eastwood, 16) formerly of Bishopbriggs Academy was chosen to ride with professional stunt riders, The Clan, as part of the 2011 launch of the Frenshnlo Pedal for Scotland, just last week in Glasgow’s Kevlingrove Skatepark.
Katman was asked to perform a series of stunts watched by Kelly Cates from Sky Sports News.
Earlier this year, East Dunbartonshire’s Cycle Co-operative launched a new Youth BMX Club in Bishopbriggs to give young riders the chance to express their BMX talents. Already, this young rider has been talent spotted and given the opportunity to take part in the professional photo-shoot with Kelly Cates, daughter of Kenny Dalglish. The club is a joint initiative with ED’s Cycle Co-op, CTC Bike Club, Sport Relief, East Dunbartonshire Community Learning and Development, Cashback for Communities and Strathclyde Police.
Anne McNair, local councillor and co-director of ED’s Cycle Co-op said “The need for a BMX Club came out of discussions with some of the young people in Bishopbriggs, who have sometimes been perceived of antisocial behaviour while just riding their bikes. We are keen to support these youngster and let them develop their talents.”
Katman said, “Getting the opportunity to do the photo-shoot with The Clan was brilliant. Riding with one of their other stunt riders, Alastair Clarkson was really good as he is an amazing trails rider.”
Andrew Pankhurst, Cycling Scotland Marketing Manager said, “Katman’s skills are amazing, he was ideal for the photo-shoot”.
Iain Withers, manager of The Clan, the UK’s most extreme cycle stunt team added “Katman is one of the most talented young riders we have seen in Scotland. Projects like those going on in Bishopbriggs are essential for supporting talent in alternative sports. Katman is the proof of their success” The Clan will also be appearing at the annual Bishopbriggs Cycle Festival in Etive Park on Sunday 19th June from 1pm to 5pm. This years show will feature even more activities for everyone to get involved in.
Katman will also be appearing at the Thomas Muir Festival in the Bishopbriggs Gala on Saturday 28th May from 1pm. The primary schools will be taking part in a Rainbow Ride along the main street of Bishopbriggs from the library to the Fort Theatre, where Katman and his Youth BMX Club members will put on a stunt display for the whole community.
You can see Karman in action here:
The riding skills of Katman are amazing. What a joy to watch.