2020 was like no other, the Mark Dunlop applications could not be split. This is the story about the two recipients Connor Hamilton and Samuel Shaw. Athlete: Connor Hamilton, 2020 Joint Recipient Connor was the joint recipient of the 2020 Mark Dunlop Scholarship. His praises go to the Dunlop family for the contribution they have made to up-and-coming athletes in the Rotorua community. This helped him to race in three Enduro World Series events throughout 2022 taking him to Scotland, Italy and Slovenia. Three months of travelling in a van with a group of mates made for a trip of a lifetime that wouldn't be possible without the scholarship. This opportunity allowed him to meet with sponsors face to face and have a sole focus on biking and improving his skills and riding around Europe. Athlete: Samuel Shaw 2020 Joint Recipient Samuel received the Mark Dunlop Memorial Scholarship after winning all three Giant 2W events in the 2019/2020 season. After his success and proven talent during the series he had his sights set on the Enduro World Series.
Soon after, COVID restrictions were put in place and Samuel shifted his focus to creating content for brands and used the scholarship to help in extended time off work to focus on his bike career. His content creation quickly gained momentum and he created a partnership with Transition bicycle company and Ground effect clothing company. Alongside additional support he became a factory rider of sorts for the following two years and continued to spend time adventuring and racing bikes. He says that the Mark Dunlop Memorial Scholarship was an essential part of creating this career pathway and has really appreciated that bonus time, doing what I love. APPLICATIONS FOR THE 2024 SCHOLARSHIP CLOSE APRIL 7, Apply now |