It is widely assumed that the only way to get involved in motorcycle sport is to own your own bike and begin competing. However, this sport is easily accessible to people who do not have the opportunity to race.
This is the case of Ross Denholm, an 18-year-old autistic teenager. Ross has been introduced
to motorsport as a child, thanks to his father, Colvin. Ross has always had a strong desire to compete in races, but due to his disability, he has been unable to pursue a career as a rider. Fortunately for Ross, his father has spent years actively participating in motorcycle sport, so Colvin found a way to give his son an active role in races. This is how Ross started covering an active role in races as a Marshal.
The day Ross got told that he could marshal for the first time, his excitement was unmeasurable. On his first day a few months ago, he felt really nervous, but the excitement of being so close to riders and to have
an active role in the race overcame any every fear. He started marshalling few months ago, but since that day Ross has fell in love with his role and has never missed a round of the Scottish Championship Bike Racing. “I love being a Marshal. It is a role with responsibilities, and it is essential for the race. This role allowed me to get new skills and it is exciting to me to help the staff and the riders when it is necessary”, Ross said.
There is no doubt that Ross enjoys his job, not only because it allows him to observe motorcycle sport closely and from a very different perspective. Ross enjoys his role because it has enabled him to make positive changes in his life. In fact, since he began marshalling, Ross has met many wonderful people, ranging from marshals to those working in the paddock and other areas of the circuit. This assisted Ross in gaining confidence in himself when approaching someone he doesn’t know. Ross has become indispensable to the Marshal's team as a result of his dedication and hard work.
Ross believes that anyone can find their way into motorcycle sport. Ross believes that this sport can encourage other people with disabilities to participate. "Go for it!!" advises Ross. “There are numerous ways to get involved if you enjoy motors and want to be a part of this discipline. You can start by being a Marshal, serving food, or even competing if you have a bike. The only thing that matters is that you start and have fun."
Ross is also extremely enthusiastic about Formula One. His greatest ambition is to become a commentator in this field, which is why he enrolled in the Media and Broadcasting course at college. Ross intends to continue marshalling at races during his studies, as this activity allows him to spend time also with his father Colvin and his mum Ruth, who prepares cakes for riders and marshals. Ross’s sister, Naomi, obtained her passenger licence for Sidecars this year. This is motivating Ross to get the licence as well. Doing so will allow Ross to be a passenger for Sidecars, a role that his father has filled for many years.
Thank you to Alessandro Mazza for writing this article and Bruce Miller for the photographs