Mountain Bike Coach in the Surrey Hills — Phil Shucksmith
Your Coach-
Phil Shucksmith
I started Blackdown Mountain Bike Coaching for one simple reason: I love seeing people enjoy their riding and achieve things they didn’t think they could. Whether that’s finally keeping up with your mates, riding a feature you’ve always walked, or lining up for your first Ard Rock - that’s what I’m here for.
My Riding
I’ve been lucky enough to ride at the highest levels of the sport. Racing for Great Britain, competing on the World Cup Downhill and the Enduro World Cup.
My favourite riding has to be the special events where it is all about the adventure and the result is just an added bonus. Bucket list events for me have been 1st at the Ard Rock Enduro, 1st at Trans Savoie, and 21st at the Mega Avalanche.
Those years taught me exactly what makes a bike do what you want it to - and, just as importantly, what trips riders up and holds them back.
Why I Coach
Now, in my 40s, every single ride reminds me how much the right skills change the experience. The technique I’ve built over a lifetime on bikes means I get to the bottom of every trail grinning, whatever the terrain.
I want that for you. Coaching is how I pass on the things that took me years to learn - in a way that clicks in an afternoon.
What it means for you
Racing at the top doesn’t automatically make someone a good coach - but understanding the why behind every skill does. I break riding down into simple, repeatable steps, then help you feel them on real Surrey Hills trails.
You don’t need to be fast, fearless or fit. My riders are everyday mountain bikers, families and event riders who just want to enjoy their riding more. We never chase speed - we build confidence through control, and the speed and fun take care of themselves.