August blog

August had its fair share of ups and downs, but it ended up being one of the most important months of the season for me.

The month kicked off with the GP Lorient one of my favourite races on the calendar and a big target for the year. I’d been building form for it, but sometimes form has other plans… the legs just didn’t show up on the day. Still, I gave it everything and came away with a respectable result, even if it wasn’t the standout ride I’d hoped for.

Not long after, I was hit with a bit of illness that forced me off the bike for a week. Frustrating timing, especially with how good my form had been, but I used the time to properly recover and reset.

By the back half of the month and after celebrating my 20th birthday I was back pinning numbers on. I eased in with two races that brought an 11th and a 4th place, both good signs that the legs were still good and the form was still there.

The real highlight of August, though, was the Grand Prix de la Somme.

I had the opportunity to ride with the UK-based team MyPad Racing a brilliant chance to test myself at this level. The race was 193 km, with some good bergs and plenty of crosswinds to keep things interesting.

Being a UCI 1.2, I knew the level would be high, and with it being my first time racing this distance, I wasn’t entirely sure how my body would respond. Early on I followed a few moves, then decided to settle in and save everything I could for the finale.

With 3 km to go, both legs cramped up, brutal timing but thankfully the run to the line was mostly downhill. I managed to hang on and roll in just behind the bunch for 62nd. On paper it might not jump out, but for my first UCI 1.2 and my longest-ever road race, I was honestly proud of that ride. It was made even better by seeing my teammate Rowan get 3rd on the day.

As September begins, I’m excited to head home for my final race of the year, enjoy some fun miles, rest up, and then put everything into preparing for a massive 2026.