Getting to Know: Ella Conolly, Enduro Racer
Mar 03, 2023
Ella Conolly has taken enduro racing by storm and is going for the win this year! She won a round at the Enduro World Series last year and it gave her motivation to go for it this year. We had the chance to catch up with her before the season starts to hear how training is going, how she spends her free time and to find out her favorite ride snacks and post-ride meal :) Find out below! And be sure to cheer her on throughout the race season!
We are stoked that she chooses Lume Six sports bras when riding and racing, specifically the Cirra High Impact Sports Bra. "The Cirra High Impact Sports Bra is everything I’ve ever wanted in a sports bra. It feels supportive and comfortable without being restrictive. I spend hours on my mountain bike, racing and training, and in the best way possible don’t even notice it’s there!" - Ella Conolly
How has the offseason/Winter been for you so far?
It’s been really good. Training wise things have been solid, mostly putting in the work in the gym and some miles on the bike. I’ve been in Spain for the past couple of months which makes a nice change from the Scottish winter! Now we start to add in more sessions for speed on the trails and work towards race pace. The first Enduro World Series is coming around very quickly now.
How are you feeling this year? Is there a race or trip you are particularly excited about?
I’m excited to get going this year, having my first EWS win last year gave me a taste of what could be and motivation has been high over the winter. Our first couple of races in Tasmania at the end of March should make an amazing trip. It is such a beautiful place and we are so lucky to have the excuse to travel there.
"Having my first EWS win last year gave me a taste of what bould be..."
Do you have any specific goals with racing? This year or in general…
My goal with racing is to win the Enduro World Series. I’m happy to build it up over the seasons to make sure riding my bike is still enjoyable. So I guess a long, fun-filled career is also a top priority.
What is your favorite memory from racing?
So many to choose from! My second Enduro World Series trip was to South America- Chile and Colombia. It was my first time outside of Europe and felt like a huge adventure being somewhere I didn’t speak that language with such different culture. My first Scottish EWS last year was pretty special too. And I met my now fiancé at the races!
What does a typical week of training look like for you right now?
At the moment I do a couple of gym sessions, and six bike rides over the week. I try to mix it up between road, gravel, mountain and jump bikes to keep things fresh. They’ll vary between endurance rides or an interval session. I do a little bit of indoor bouldering over the winter. I’m very much a beginner but its fun learning new skills.
What is your favorite outdoor activity aside from cycling/enduro?
It would have to be snowboarding. Something I used to do a lot more of than now. But anything that takes you to the mountains is great. For calmer days, simply walking my dog in the forest brings me a lot of joy.
What was your favorite thing to do outside as a kid?
Everything and everything. I have most memories of simple things like splashing around in muddy puddles, running through the woods or swimming in the river. Riding a bike was a huge part of my childhood as my younger brother made sure we didn’t go anywhere without two wheels.
What is your favorite snack while exercising?
Anything that involves peanut butter! From a sachet, in a pb & j sandwich, on banana bread….
What is your favorite post-exercise meal?
Tacos are always a winner.
Is there somewhere you really want to travel to for cycling/enduro?
I would love to spend some more time in New Zealand. Especially the south island, it looks like the mountain bikers dream.
What would an ideal vacation look like to you?
I’m not very good at sitting still, so somewhere there’s plenty to do. Places the mountains meet to ocean are often my favourite. Maybe some walking, swimming, exploring little towns and places to eat. I do enjoy spending time away from the bike, the first ride back hits different.
What is your favorite time of day and why?
Definitely evening, golden hour and sunset kinda time. It gives such a sense of calm.
Which Lume Six sports bra do you wear for riding and what do you like about it?
The Cirra High Impact Sports Bra is everything I’ve ever wanted in a sports bra. It feels supportive and comfortable without being restrictive. I spend hours on my mountain bike, racing and training, and in the best way possible don’t even notice it’s there!
