Written by Stephen Williams• 09:25• Pro Cycling Story

The start to my pro career has been difficult. A knee injury has meant I’ve been off the bike for a few weeks. All I want to do is get stuck in yet this has been the most difficult six weeks of my cycling career. It’s been really stressful.

You cycle because you love it. When someone tells says you have to stay off the bike for a certain amount of time, it really tests your mental strength. This start is not ideal but everything has been really supportive and professional with regards to the team. They are all behind me so it’s about looking after myself and doing the right things off the bike.

I’ve gotten to know the riders and staff and settled in really well at Bahrain-Merida. I came into cycling quite late at 16 years old so I’ve only been doing it for 6-7 years. Because I came into it late, I’m loving every minute. Even during this difficult time. I also have some good memories to hold onto and encourage me to keep moving forward.

My victories in stage 7 of the baby Giro and Ronde de l’Isard are the most significant results of my career so far. They were proper cool races last year. The fans in the Giro are incredible. The race is 10 days long, it’s a great event to be part of as all the best under 23’s in the world are there. I knew I was going there with the best shape of my life and was confident I could race to win. To back it up and win – I was pretty happy with that.

Bahrain-Merida first contacted me at the end of June last year. I spoke to General Manager, Brent Copeland. It was a perfect chat, we spoke about normal things and also where we thought my ambitions lay, and the support I’d have with moving forward and progressing in the sport. It went really well and from then on I knew Bahrain-Merida was the perfect team for me.

I listened carefully and thoroughly to what he had to say. He explained very clearly what the team would like to do for me and how I’d be able to fit in. You’re in this sport because you want to reach the top level and be in the biggest races in the world. To sit there chatting to the general manager of one of the biggest teams in the world who is such a respected guy, it’s brilliant to hear all the hard work you’ve done as paid off. It’s something special.

Once I got involved with the team and met everybody, the mindset switches to delivering on your job. I know I’m here for a reason and have a role to play. To put on the new kit, a World Tour kit for the first time was special. I was a bit shocked but then all of a sudden you get used to it and this is what you wear to work.

This is the start for me. I’m 22 years old and I’m looking forward to many incredible experiences in my future. I plan to keep you guys up to date with it.

Header photo: (photo: Colin Flockton / SteepHill.tv)

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Last modified: Jan 20, 2020