Oliver Bryant
GT Driver
Who is Oliver Bryant?
Oliver Bryant is a highly experienced GT driver and since becoming Autosport’s “one to watch” in 2004 he has competed in over 525 races, many at an international level and has notched up 150 wins in a variety of categories including the British GT Championship, Blancpain Endurance Series & high profile historic events including the Goodwood Revival, Classic Daytona 24 Hour, Silverstone Classic & Spa 6 hours.
Tell us about yourself and your cycling or adventuring/sporting achievements?
Career highlights include 4th place in the British GT championship in 2005 & 2006, 3rd place in the championship in 2013 and 3rd place in the Blancpain Endurance Series in 2014. Spa 24 hour Pro-AM podiums in 2014 & 2015 were followed by his Le Mans 24 hours debut in 2016 with a 9th place finish in the competitive GTE-AM class.
What are your favourite things to do on the bike?
I started mountain biking as a kid and into my teens, I’ve always thoroughly enjoyed it. I got into road cycling in 2012 and most of my cycling is on the road bike now. I used to cycle in Monaco with some racing friends who are based down there. All the F1 and sportscar boys who are based down there use cycling to stay fit and socialise so it’s been great fun to ride with them, although a baptism of fire going straight into a peloton of experienced cyclist on my first ride with clip in pedals!
Where is the most exciting place you’ve ridden your bike?
I cycled my Giant TCR from Le Chable to Mont Fort in Verbier which was a solid few hours climbing, spectacular views so made it worth the effort! I’ve also cycled in Minorca.
What is your goal in life, cycling or otherwise?
To do well in everything I set my mind to, but also to enjoy life as much as possible!
Who are your sporting heroes?
I have huge respect for all pro-cyclists for the level of physical fitness and mental stamina they have. I’m a Geraint Thomas fan, having read this book. But motorsport is a competitive arena to be in and it’s also physical and endurance racing is mentally draining to keep your concentration on double or triple stints at night, so I have massive respect for the likes of Tom Kristensen, known as Monsieur Le Mans after his record 9 overall wins!!
Tell us how you know Spokes of Bagshot?
I met James when he worked at AW Cycles / a different cycling shop?… He was always very helpful and I bought a bike and plenty of kit from him whilst he was there. Since he started Spokes I’ve watched with interest as it’s grown. Everyone as spokes is friendly and committed to giving good customer service.
What does being a Spokes ambassador mean to you?
I’m fortunate enough to have been an ambassador for some great brands over my racing career, including BMW, Bremont Watches & Duncan Taylor Scotch Whisky, so it is great to add Spokes to this list. I look forward to working with them in some cycling adventures.
If you had one piece of advice for someone new to cycling what would it be?
Get kitted up and get out there… I know a good place in Bagshot that will sort you out!
