Charlie Murray: The Progression
Looking back, the milestones, the triumphs, the progression in the sport. From where he was three years ago, to where he is today, Charlie Murray talks to us about the investment, supporters, and guidance he's had along the way.
• November 11th 2020
Photo: Niklas Warner
"This season was when it all started to click into place, Pivot Factory Racing had me along as a development rider, and learning from Ed Masters and Bernad Kerr helped me to move up the ranks."
Wide Open: Looking back over the last few years, is there a moment that defined your progression in the sport?
Charlie Murray: For me, it feels like since I started racing three years ago it's been a continuous progression with some jumps and bumps along the way. When I started riding for the Wide Open team was when I started to believe in myself a bit more and the results slowly followed. This season was when it all started to click into place, Pivot Factory Racing had me along as a development rider, and learning from Ed Masters and Bernad Kerr helped me to move up the ranks.
Photo: Niklas Warner
What support have you received over the past few years, which has helped with your racing?
My first support came from a Christchurch bike shop called Fleet Cycles, these guys took a chance on my brother and me. They loaned us full suspension bikes even though we hadn't proven ourselves yet. After that, the next big step was joining the Wide Open team, this gave me the stepping stone to take my racing to an international level. While working with Wide Open I've been fortunate to have good relationships with POC, Yeti, and Pivot who have all been incredible at supporting me and making sure I'm looked after.
Photos: Jay French / Freeride NZ
Racing bikes takes up a large investment for yourself, and your supporters - what are your recommendations to those looking to strengthen / maintain relationships with supporters?
Honesty is the best policy, I think if you can talk openly to your supporters it makes the difficult conversations much easier. Always show a brave face, you are representing more reputations than just your own. Smile and laugh even when things haven't gone your way. It leaves a good impression if you are trying your best and enjoying it.
Going into 2020 / 2021 race season, what are your goals?
My goals this summer season and into next international season is to focus on my preparation/training and hopefully get a few race wins here in NZ. Overseas, I want to keep moving up in the ranks and get onto the EWS podium in 2021.
What is your advice for those racing, that want to progress in the sport?
Have fun, talk to people, keep an open mind, work harder than everyone else, and most importantly greet everyone with a smile!
Looking into the next 2 years, what would you like to achieve in the sport?
In the next two years, I am aiming to win EWS events and continue to improve in DH, XC, and all aspects of riding bikes. I'm also keen to learn a backflip!
