A New Chapter: Embracing the Adventure on Two Wheels
From Disillusionment to a Fresh Start: Mark Stewart's Pivotal Career Choice
Just half a year ago, the British track cycling star, Mark Stewart, was seriously considering stepping away from the demands of professional road cycling. Frustrated by the financial constraints and perceived lack of professionalism within the sport's second tier, he contemplated joining a Japanese team, seeking a different experience after years of what he described as 'penny-pinching'. Japan, where he had achieved a victory the previous June, seemed like an appealing alternative to the rigors of the European circuit.
An Unexpected Opportunity: Joining Modern Adventure Pro Cycling
Stewart's plans for Japan were all but finalized when a conversation with his training partner, Riley Pickrell, opened a new door. Pickrell informed him that Modern Adventure Pro Cycling, a burgeoning US team, was actively seeking experienced, English-speaking riders who would contribute positively to the team's ethos, even at a modest salary. Within a week, Stewart had signed with the new outfit, marking an exciting and unforeseen turn in his career path.
A Breath of Fresh Air: The Culture at Modern Adventure
The 30-year-old Scottish cyclist, an Olympian and double World Championships silver medalist on the track, is set to embark on a two-year journey with Modern Adventure. This team, established by former Tour de France professional George Hincapie, promises a novel approach to professional cycling. Stewart describes the team's environment as a 'breath of fresh air,' highlighting their commitment to fostering a strong team culture over immediate results. Their philosophy emphasizes that success will naturally follow if the right standards and camaraderie are established.
Founders' Honesty: Building a Foundation of Integrity
During a team workshop in Girona, Spain, Stewart was particularly impressed by the transparency of the team's leadership. Both founder Hincapie and head of performance Bobby Julich openly addressed their past involvement in doping. This candidness, Stewart noted, earned significant respect from the riders and set a precedent for honesty and integrity within the team, a stark contrast to some of his previous experiences in the sport.
A Changed Perspective: Prioritizing Team Contribution Over Individual Glory
Having navigated a professional career that included stints with Bolton Equities Black Spoke and Solution Tech-Vini Fantini, Stewart has experienced the highs and lows of the sport. His re-entry into the British track squad for the Paris Olympics further underscores his resilience. Now, at Modern Adventure, he's embracing a new role. He has specifically requested to focus on being a 'right-hand man' in the team's lead-out train, prioritizing power production and speed to support his teammates rather than chasing personal victories. This strategic shift allows him to leverage his track cycling strengths more effectively on the road.
Looking Ahead: Olympic Dreams and Future Horizons
Following his debut at the AlUla Tour, Stewart will compete at the European Track Championships. He envisions a future where he can harmoniously blend road and track cycling, with the ultimate goal of representing Great Britain at the Los Angeles Olympics in 2028. Beyond that, the thought of retirement looms, perhaps even fulfilling his earlier intention of riding for a Japanese team, a possibility he's kept open with mutual understanding. His journey reflects a profound passion for cycling, transcending the professional paid ranks, echoing his grandfather's lifelong love for the sport.