World junior bronze medalist Lewis Buchanan heads seven riders selected for Scottish Cycling’s Downhill Academy.

Buchanan, who claimed third in Mont-Sainte-Anne, Canada in September, joins Ben Cathro, Ruaridh Cunningham, Fraser McGlone, Sam Flockheart, Joe Connell and Mark Scott on an intensive 12-month training programme.

The academy, in its fourth year, is based in the Scottish Borders and aims to develop junior and under-23 riders as they strive to make their mark in the senior ranks.

Scottish Cycling performance development manager Gary Willis said: “To be selected, athletes must show dedication to their sport, as well as a desire to travel and compete at the highest level in one of cycling’s most challenging disciplines.

 “We have chosen seven top athletes for the 2010/11 programme and they are all keen and raring to get on with their winter training, challenge themselves, and see how they keep developing as young athletes on the world stage.

“Lewis’ medal this year was the first World Championship success for Scottish Cycling’s Downhill Academy since Ruaridh Cunningham won the junior title in 2007 and we were pleased to have been able to support his development.”