Best of Memories: Max Stedman (Canyon DHB)

Winner of the Tour Of Antalya (Turkey), Max Stedman of Canyon DHB gives us his best memories in the sport so far

Best of Memories: Max Stedman (Canyon DHB)

Winner of the Tour Of Antalya (Turkey), Max Stedman of Canyon DHB gives us his best memories in the sport so far

Best Races

Max writes, A few stand out; the first one after a pretty big disappointment of not qualifying for the Tour Of Britain, a few of us from Pedal Heaven, (organised by Will Fox) off our own backs did the Tour Of Bulgaria. It was just the riders, Alex Paton’s mate and my Dad, also a Bulgarian helper, who we jokingly called ‘drive’. It was easily one the fun and funniest weeks I’ve had on a bike and we got some fairly decent results as well.

Another good trip, this time a Harry Tanfield organised one to China, the first time we did the Tour Of Quanzhou Bay. We didn’t really know what to expect, only four riders, Rory, Hank, Harry and myself went with help from Harry’s mate Herman and Marco from Hong Kong. We ended up smashing it out the park, 2 stage wins, another 2nd, the overall and the sprints jersey, as well as very memorable week away. Although the lack of responsible staff around meant me and Rory missed the flight home!

And finally, how can I forget the most recent race. Tour Of Antalya, the teams and my first professional race win. It was a massive win for us, and came through a lot of hard work, planning and some great team work. The stage on the first day was beautiful. We were at the beach, saw the mountains and I saw how beautiful it was there at that moment.

Training wise, as much as I love the roads around Bristol, I do sometimes miss Exeter and the roads around Dartmoor and Exmoor. My pictures probably don’t do it justice that’s for sure (A quick google will though). The memories attached as well, various ups and downs but a lot of laughs on those roads throughout my time at university.

Just a few months after graduating and being able to do the Tour Of Britain on those roads was the cherry on top of the cake. Also, Alex Paton bagged the Sprints jersey as well and we couldn’t have been happier, so I guess that was very much a highlight race as well!