Riding the recent surge of interest in our "The ONE" junior racing bike, we came across yet another inspiring youth. His name is Thomas Phillips. He is 7 years old, but don't let that fool you - he loves to go fast and isn't afraid of a little lactic acid as he pounds through the km's on his way to the podium.

So let's get to know him!
PL: So at seven years old and in Grade 2 in elementary school, you probably don't have a lot of classmates that compete in triathlons. I certainly can't remember any triathletes in my class when I was in Grade 2. Do you belong to any groups or teams for young riders?

Thomas: Yes. My dad belongs to a club called Singapore STARS. They do triathlon and they have a junior club call the Junior STARS. I am in that club.

PL: What type of racing do you do?

Thomas: I have done running races and cycle races. My main cycle races are team trials. I have done two Team time trials over 12km. Me and my friends in the Junior STARS got 3^rd on both occasions. The race was in Singapore. If you look at this site you can see the races I have this year. I really like the time trials.

PL: Good stuff! How long have you been racing?

Thomas: My first race  was when I was 5 years old. So I have been racing for 2 years 

PL: Heh. When I was 5, most of the kids my age were still using training wheels. What got you interested in racing?

Thomas: My dad. He does triathlon and bike racing and he got me interested. His friends also have kids and we all play and cycle together. 

PL: What kind of riding do you do for fun?

Thomas: I cycle on my road bike around the streets near my house. I have also done mountain biking which is fun 

PL: Could you tell us about your bike?

Thomas: I have the Pro Lite The ONE 24 inch road bike. I only got it recently but I love it. It looks like a real racing bike like my dads but it fits me so I can ride it. Please see the attached picture of me and my bike!!!

PL: What do you like about it?

Thomas: The best is thing is that I can reach the gear levers and brake levers and I can use them properly. On other bikes it is hard for me to use them. Also I love the fact I have so many gears.  I like to ride like Lance and I love to ride on the drops so I go really fast. My top speed so far is 29kph on the flat.  

PL: Do you have anything else to share about PL equipment?

 Thomas: I really like the black and white colours. It looks great. Lots of other kids (and dads) are always admiring my bike! 

PL: Where can we read more about you and your team?

Thomas: Have a look at the STARS site. It has a picture of me in the Junior STASR section.