Ride London 100

Definitely agree. But isn't that also true to some extent of cycling as a sport on the whole? The barriers that exist for a youngster with little to no money getting into to cycling are huge. This is why basketball, football etc are so popular. Accessibility.

Yes, that's why it seems in such poor taste to pour finding into such things that will perpetuate the imbalance.

Currently, youngsters from all backgrounds have the chance to visit any cycling facility where there will be a club run by volunteers who'll provide loan of a bike and helmet and allow participation for a minimal fee or free. There are also organisations who get funding to do similar things in schools and the community.

For this to continue and grow, it needs funding and willing participants. Both of these come from success at international competiton, which in turn draws its talent from the situation mentioned above. Fail to support one, and the other will suffer.