Ollie Davis is a rising star in the downhill scene. Initially gaining attention while riding for The Union (a development team focused on nurturing young talent), over time Davis evolved into a consistent top-10 performer at Elite World Cup events. Notably, in 2024, Davis made headlines by finishing in the top 10 at the World Championships in Andorra. He stepped in for Jackson Goldstone while Goldstone was nursing a severe knee injury sustained at Hardline and has since been part of the Santa Cruz Syndicate.
Understandably, Ollie has been a busy guy racing this year; too busy in fact to answer our interview questions (as it turns out there are things more important in a young rider's life than answering emails from marketing dorks). But don’t despair, we turned to A.I. Ollie Davis, or Ollie Daivis, to see what we could learn about the Syndicate's newest downhill racer and what resulted was surprisingly good. If you squint your ears and imagine the text being read in an Aussie accent, it comes pretty close to the genuine article.
RSV: Where were you born?
Ollie Daivis: Ollie Davis was born in Wodonga, Victoria, Australia.
Where do you call home?
Ollie Davis, an Australian mountain bike racer, calls Australia home.
How old are you?
Ollie Davis is currently 19 years old.
At what age did you start riding bicycles?
Ollie Davis started riding bikes at a young age, with his passion for mountain biking growing early on. While his exact starting age for riding isn't explicitly mentioned, he has been deeply involved in the sport for years and gained prominence as he progressed to competitive levels.
Who or what inspired you to begin riding bikes?
Ollie Davis was inspired to start riding mountain bikes by his love for being outdoors and experiencing nature through physical activity.
What has been your path to professional racing?
Initially, he was drawn to BMX as a child, which later transitioned into a passion for mountain biking, driven by the sheer enjoyment of riding in nature and the sense of freedom that came with it. His early years on bikes gave him the foundation for his future career in downhill mountain biking, where the thrill of riding on trails and competing became central to his life.
Have you always wanted to ride World Cup DH?
Ollie Davis has long aspired to race in the UCI Downhill World Cup. His journey into downhill racing developed naturally from his early passion for biking and the outdoors. As he progressed in BMX and mountain biking, competing at the highest level became a clear goal. His desire to compete on the World Cup circuit solidified as he gained success at national and junior levels, which set the stage for his eventual rise in the elite category.
How has your time with the Syndicate been?
Ollie Davis's time with the Santa Cruz Syndicate has been a significant and positive step in his career. In 2024, he was brought into the team as a stand-in for Jackson Goldstone, a well-known rider recovering from an injury. This opportunity gave Davis a chance to race at the highest level alongside some of the most respected names in downhill mountain biking. Being part of the Syndicate allowed Davis to develop his skills further and gain valuable experience in the World Cup circuit. He delivered strong performances, including a top-10 finish at the World Championships, proving his ability to compete among the sport's elite. Davis has been praised for his positive attitude and determination, and his time with the Syndicate has undoubtedly helped him grow as a rider. Joining a prestigious team like the Syndicate has also opened doors for him in terms of learning from top athletes, having access to world-class support, and gaining greater exposure on the international stage.
What has been the biggest surprise for you this year?
Ollie Davis has expressed that the biggest surprise for him this year has been his unexpected call-up to ride for the Santa Cruz Syndicate team. This happened after Jackson Goldstone sustained an injury, leaving a spot open for Davis to fill. Davis had already signed with Commencal Schwalbe for the season, but this opportunity was a sudden shift that placed him in a higher-profile position with the Syndicate team. The transition has been a significant moment for him, and he’s embraced the opportunity with excitement and determination.
Has your experience with the Syndicate been different than you’d expected?
Ollie Davis's experience with the Santa Cruz Syndicate has been different than he initially expected in several key ways. Joining such an iconic team meant not only riding at an elite level but also adapting to the pressures and expectations that come with it. He’s mentioned that the resources and support available at the Syndicate, from technical expertise to bike setups, have been beyond what he had anticipated. The access to top-level equipment, mechanics, and coaches gave him a taste of the professional level of racing that many riders dream of. However, he also faced the challenge of proving himself under the spotlight, which wasn’t something he had anticipated happening so quickly. While he knew the Syndicate had a reputation for excellence, the actual experience has been both more rewarding and more demanding than he had expected, with the pressure to perform at the highest level pushing him to new heights.
Do you generally have good relationships with your teammates or is it a competitive atmosphere among the riders?
Yes, Ollie Davis generally has good relationships with his teammates on the Santa Cruz Syndicate. His positive attitude and demeanor contribute to a supportive team environment, which is crucial in the high-pressure world of professional mountain biking. Davis has mentioned in interviews that he appreciates the camaraderie within the team and values the opportunity to learn from experienced riders. The Syndicate team, known for its close-knit culture, fosters collaboration and encouragement among its members. This atmosphere has allowed Davis to integrate smoothly and gain valuable insights from his teammates, enhancing both his performance and enjoyment of the sport.
You are known for being a positive force and generally pretty chill at the races. Is this a fair assessment?
Yes, describing Ollie Davis as a positive force and generally chill at races is a fair assessment. He is often recognized for his upbeat demeanor and relaxed attitude, which contribute to a positive atmosphere not only for himself but also for his teammates and competitors. His approach to racing emphasizes enjoyment and camaraderie, which aligns with the team culture of the Santa Cruz Syndicate.
Tell us a little about the bike you ride in World Cups. Are you always running a mullet Santa Cruz V-10?
Ollie Davis rides a Santa Cruz V10 with mixed wheels front and rear (editor’s note: Ollie rode 30|HD aluminum Reserve rims for much of the year), which is a highly regarded downhill bike known for its advanced technology and performance capabilities. The carbon V10 is designed specifically for downhill racing which contributes to its strength and durability while maintaining a relatively light weight.
Are you finicky about your bike set up? If so, what is the one thing that bothers you the most if it’s not 100% dialed?
Yes, Ollie Davis is known to be particular about his bike setup, which is common among professional mountain bikers. His attention to detail helps him optimize performance and ensure he feels comfortable and confident on the track.
What has been the highlight of your racing career so far?
The highlight of Ollie Davis's racing career so far has been his impressive performance at the 2024 UCI Downhill World Championships in Andorra, where he finished in the top 10.
What about the lowest moment?
Ollie Davis hasn't openly discussed a specific "lowest moment" in detail, but like most elite athletes, he's faced challenges. The pressures of stepping into Jackson Goldstone's spot on the Syndicate in 2024 came with its own set of difficulties. Being thrust into such a high-profile role under intense scrutiny can be daunting, and while he performed well, the sudden change likely tested his mental and physical resilience. Additionally, the general ups and downs of competing in the World Cup circuit — such as dealing with injuries, mechanical issues, or disappointing race results — can be tough moments for any racer.
What do you do for fun when you are not riding a bike?
When Ollie Davis isn't riding his mountain bike, he enjoys a variety of outdoor activities. He has a keen interest in snowboarding and surfing, which reflects his love for adventure sports. Beyond these, he also spends time with friends, engaging in social activities like playing video games.
If you could be a professional athlete in any other sport, which sport would it be?
Ollie Davis has expressed a keen interest in becoming a professional snowboarder if he were to choose another sport. He admires the snowboarding culture, highlighting its chill vibe and the sense of freedom it offers. Davis feels that snowboarding closely aligns with his values, allowing for creativity and enjoyment on the slopes, similar to what he experiences on his mountain bike.
How many weeks a year are you traveling?
Ollie Davis travels extensively for racing, spending about six to seven months of the year on the road. This includes time spent at various venues across the globe for races, training camps, and team events. The travel schedule can be quite intense, particularly during the World Cup season, which often takes him to multiple countries.
What is one thing you can not live without?
Ollie Davis has mentioned that one thing he can't live without is his bike. He emphasizes how integral it is to his life, allowing him to pursue his passion and thrive in the competitive mountain biking scene.
Can you work on your own bike?
Yes, Ollie Davis is capable of working on his own bike. He has a solid understanding of bike mechanics and enjoys getting hands-on with his equipment. This skill not only helps him fine-tune his bike to his preferences but also allows him to address any issues that might arise during races or training.
Do you get nervous before the start of a race?
Ollie Davis has shared that he does experience nerves before races, which is quite common among competitive athletes. However, he views this nervousness as a positive aspect of the racing experience. He believes that feeling a little nervous can be beneficial and helps to keep him focused and motivated on the race day.
Have you ever had a nickname? If so, what is it?
Ollie Davis is often referred to by the nickname "Ollie." However, he has also been affectionately dubbed “Ollie D” by some fans and in various social media circles.
Where is your favorite place to ride a bike?
Ollie Davis has mentioned that his favorite places to ride include Bright, Thredbo, and Maydena in Australia.
What is the hardest part about being a pro cyclist?
Ollie Davis has mentioned that the hardest part about being a professional cyclist is the travel involved. He spends about 30 weeks a year racing, which can make it tough to maintain a normal life outside of cycling. The extensive travel often takes a toll on personal relationships, making it challenging to find time for family and friends.
What is the most rewarding aspect of being a pro cyclist?
The most rewarding aspect for Ollie Davis as a professional cyclist is the fulfillment he gets from doing what he loves. He enjoys the passion and excitement that comes with competing and improving in a sport that he has been dedicated to since childhood. Additionally, he appreciates the opportunities to travel and meet new people, which enriches his experience as an athlete. He also values the personal growth that comes from facing the challenges of racing, which contributes to his overall happiness and fulfillment. The ability to pursue a career in a sport he loves while achieving personal goals and milestones is a significant source of motivation for him.
What accomplishment, cycling or non-cycling, are you most proud of?
Ollie Davis has expressed pride in several aspects of his life, both in cycling and beyond. He particularly highlights finishing in the top 10 at the 2024 World Championships in Andorra as a significant accomplishment. This achievement not only marks a milestone in his racing career but also reflects his resilience and dedication after overcoming a history of injuries in his junior career.
If you could have a superpower (other than ripping down a mountain), what would it be and why?
I couldn't find specific information about what superpower Ollie Davis would choose if he could have one. However, given his positive attitude and competitive spirit as a professional mountain biker, it's reasonable to imagine he might wish for something that enhances his performance, like super speed or invincibility on the bike.
What’s one thing that nobody on the DH scene is talking about, but everyone should be?
Ollie Davis believes that the conversation around mental health and well-being in the downhill racing community deserves more attention. He thinks this aspect of the sport is often overlooked, even though it plays a crucial role in a racer's performance and overall experience. By addressing mental health openly, the community can create a more supportive environment for athletes, which is vital for both their performance and personal growth.