The team at SD teams are very proud to have supported Scott for the last few years, and so we took a moment to chat to him in the run up to what looks to be a very exciting year.
First of all, congratulations on going pro! What made you want to take on cycling professionally?
I decided to pursue cycling full-time towards the end of 2013. I had to make the choice between applying for university and seeing where cycling would take me, and looking back, I made the right decision. It’s been a tough journey to be able to sign my first professional contract, especially after four years of hard work and with some ups and downs, but winning a race makes it all worthwhile!
And you’ve previously been cycling for Team Wiggins – how was that experience?
I joined Team Wiggins in 2016 after being a part of British Cycling’s Olympic Academy Programme. WIGGINS is an U23 development team who race a lot on the continent, so it seemed like a great opportunity. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time with the team – there’s a really nice atmosphere within WIGGINS and a great racing calendar too.
What has been your proudest moment throughout this journey?
There have been plenty of great memories over the last few years. Going to the Commonwealth Games back in 2014 was an amazing experience and something that I’m very proud of, as was winning four consecutive U23 National TT titles. My highlight from the 2017 season was finishing 4th overall in the U23 Tour of Italy.
Some huge achievements there! Have there been any challenges along the way?
There have been plenty of challenges – crashes, illness and injury always make things difficult, but it’s all a part of the job and it’s completely worth it in the end.
What are the preparations going to be like going into next year?
I’m currently having a break and will start my preparations for the 2018 season in a few weeks, so it’ll be mainly cycling with some training in the gym as well. I find that the winter is a really important period for me to build up my fitness and give myself a good foundation for success during the season.
What’s next on the agenda for you?
I’ll start training again in the next few weeks, and I’ve got my first training camp with Team Dimension Data next month, so I’m looking forward to that.
For the time being, I’m not sure what my race programme will look like for next season. Fingers crossed that I’ll be selected for the next Commonwealth Games and get another shot at winning a medal!
You’ve got everyone at SD behind you. Congratulations again and best of luck with the next season!
To read more about Scott’s journey so far, click here.
