A TIDWORTH-based soldier who only took up cycling two years ago has been selected to represent the British Army.

Lance Corporal Connah Towers, serving with The Royal Tank Regiment, who has recently returned from a cycling training camp in South Africa is about to compete in his first race season

Connah, aged 24, who has served since 2011, said: “Before I got involved in cycling, I was never interested in pushing my goals but now I’m constantly looking to the next level, pushing my limits, the army has completely changed my outlook on achievement.”

The Challenger Tank crewman spent three weeks in the Cape Town region training alongside fellow soldiers from the Royal Armoured Corps, and even gained some valuable advice from two British Olympians.

The soldier from Northumberland said: “We spotted road and track star Elinor Barker and former track champion Callum Skinner in a café and were curious what they were doing there.

“After a chat the team were invited to join them on a ride, a 100-mile cycle with elite cyclists is not your everyday training session.

“Callum is now an ambassador for the sport and told me ‘to enjoy it for what it is’.”

Connah is fully prepared for his national level road race over the Easter weekend and added: “Whatever level of ability, a career in the army will give you the chance to discover your sporting passions.

“If you love sport, there’s no better place than to be in the army. You’ll get the chance to train with the very best coaches and like me get opportunities to train abroad.”