When you speak to Daniel Briffa, secretary of the newly formed Bike it Up Cycling Team, one thing becomes clear: this isn’t just a team – it’s a family.
“I can honestly say that our team is built on the foundation of being a family first,” he said with a smile.
“This has been the driving force behind our growth and improvement over the last couple of years. By supporting one another and staying true to our values, we’ve achieved success together and strengthened our team in every sense.”
The Bike it up Cycling team was formerly part of Birkirkara St Joseph Sports Club’s cycling division, but they found themselves at a crossroads when the club was formally dissolved earlier this year.
“It was a tough moment for us,” Briffa admits.
“We had to make a decision – whether to go our separate ways or continue our journey together. Without hesitation, we chose the latter.”
Thus, Bike it Up was born, carrying forward the same spirit, camaraderie, and drive that had kept the team together in previous years.
“For us, it wasn’t just about finding a new name; it was about preserving what we had built over the years,” Briffa continued.
We wanted to continue our journey with the same passion and determination that defined us as part of Birkirkara St Joseph, but also with a fresh perspective and renewed motivation.”
Looking ahead
As the team prepares to step into 2025, excitement is palpable.
“It wasn’t easy to transition so quickly,” Briffa admits.
“But we are looking forward to 2025 as our first official year as Bike it Up Racing.”
The team’s vision extends beyond the competitive scene.
“We aim to create a space that welcomes everyone – not just athletes – who want to enjoy cycling,” Briffa said.
“We want to promote cycling not only as a competitive sport or a mode of transport but also as a way to improve overall wellbeing and enjoy the adventures it can bring.”
This ethos is what sets Bike it Up apart.
“As a team, we hope to inspire more people to experience the joy and unity that comes from riding together,” Briffa added.
Their mission isn’t just about winning races; it’s about making a positive impact on the local cycling community and beyond.
Ambitions
While Bike it Up’s heart is rooted in its family-first philosophy, the team has ambitious plans for the coming year.
“Our ambition is to maintain this close-knit atmosphere and use it to achieve the best possible results locally,” Briffa said.
“But we’re also looking forward to competing abroad as we take on new challenges.”
On the local front, Bike it Up is fully committed to participating in all major cycling events.
“We’ll be fully engaged in all local cycling races, especially the ‘Tour ta’ Malta’ and the National Championships,” Briffa shared.
“We’re also proud to support and compete in races organized by fellow sports clubs.”
The team is also preparing to make its mark internationally.
“Our first commitment abroad will be the Mediofondo Hibla Major Città di Avola, part of the Coppa Sicilia,” he revealed.
After that, we’ll take on the Trofeo Puglisi in Floridia, the Gran fondo di Ragusa, and a UCI race in Turkey later in the year.”
Despite their ambitious calendar, Bike it Up remains grounded in its values. “For us, success isn’t just measured in podium finishes,” he said.
“It’s about the bonds we’ve built and the people we’ve inspired along the way. By staying true to who we are, I believe we can achieve great things together.”
With a blend of friendship, ambition, and a deep love for cycling, Bike it Up is poised to become a force to be reckoned with – both on and off the racecourse.
As Briffa puts it, “The bike is more than just a vehicle for competition; it’s a vehicle for connection, growth, and adventure.”
And with that spirit driving them, there’s no doubt this team will continue to ride from strength to strength.
