I’m Jess, and I want to take you on a ride through my journey as a junior cyclist. It all started in 2018 when I hopped on my bike and began participating in local races. Little did I know that this would be the beginning of an incredible adventure in competitive cycling. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of progressing to UK National Series events and even representing the Isle of Man Commonwealth team in the time trial and road race. The thrills, challenges, and victories along the way have shaped me into the cyclist I am today.
Setting My Sights Higher:
Last year was a defining moment for me as I achieved remarkable milestones in my cycling career. I was honoured to be a member of the Isle of Man Commonwealth team and secured a seventh-place finish in the National Series standings for 2022. The season was filled with top 10 finishes, including a memorable podium place at the prestigious Lincoln GP. These accomplishments ignited a fire within me and fueled my determination to reach even greater heights in the coming years.
Winter Training and Team Bonding:
I dedicated my winter to intense training sessions to gear up for the challenges ahead. I pushed my limits, striving to enhance my skills and build endurance. But training isn’t just about physical preparation; it’s also about building camaraderie and finding support in a team. This year, I had the incredible opportunity to join Hutchinson-Brother UK, an elite development team based in London. Meeting my new teammates and sharing our collective passion for cycling has been a truly enriching experience.
Focusing on Development:
After the whirlwind of excitement surrounding the 2022 Commonwealth Games, I consciously decided to channel my energy into developing my skills and racecraft as a rider for the upcoming 2023 season. It’s crucial to continuously improve physically and mentally to stay ahead in this highly competitive sport. My long-term goal is to keep progressing within cycling, pushing my boundaries and gaining exposure to racing in Europe. But I understand the importance of balance and strive to manage my training and race schedule alongside my other commitments.
Grateful for Support:
None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of my sponsors and local community. I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to Thornton Financial Planners for their belief in my journey and the support they provide. Additionally, the ongoing support from Bikestyle, RehabLab Physiotherapy, and IOM Sport has been invaluable. It’s heartwarming to know that I have a team of people cheering me on every step of the way.
As I reflect on my journey as a junior cyclist, I am filled with a sense of pride and gratitude. Each race, each training session has shaped me into the cyclist I am today. The road ahead is challenging, but with determination, perseverance, and the support of an incredible team, I’m ready to conquer new horizons. Thank you for joining me on this thrilling ride, and I look forward to sharing more exciting updates from my cycling adventures in the future! Stay tuned!
