Jamie Popham calls it a day

Irish MTB racing suffered a blow this week when one of its most promising young riders, downhiller Jamie Popham, announced his retirement.

In a press release, Popham listed a number of reasons for the shock decision. Monetary conditions are a big factor, these including the controversial decision by the Irish Sports Council to exclude non-Olympic athletes from the International Carding scheme in 2006, plus the reduced funding for international teams. The lack of a private sponsorship deal has also made things very difficult. Popham stated that the lingering effects of a broken ankle suffered in 2004 has also played a part.

Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*

Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets

After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59

Join now for unlimited access

Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1