Q & A: Joe Sutton (Vitus Pro Cycling p/b Brother UK)

The latest signing for Vitus Pro Cycling p/b Brother UK is Joe Sutton who says taking a step up into a UCI team 2020 was a big goal for him

Q & A: Joe Sutton (Vitus Pro Cycling p/b Brother UK)

Was riding for a UCI team a key goal for 2020
Joe: Taking the step up for the season of 2020 was a big goal for me. When I was a first year Under 23, I set out with the ambition of reaching a professional team, which I have now achieved. Like most riders, I am motivated by my progress, which I will carry through to next season with the ambition of taking another step up in the future.

What does it mean to you to sign for a team with a long and rich history in the sport?
Joe: A team with a rich history in the sport excites me. When a team or any organisation for that matter, have a history in something it shows a willingness to learn, adapt and evolve with the sport. I’m looking forward to benefiting from the team’s experience both on and off bike. This is a great opportunity for me in my present cycling career but will also help me in later life when employers are able to see the dedication, motivation and focus needed to reach this goal.

What was the highlight of the 2019 season for you?
Joe: The top 10’s I achieved in the Premier Calendar series this year were fantastic, however there is no feeling like winning. My 2019 highlight was winning the South East Divisional Road Race Championships.

What was the best race (the most fun/enjoyable one) in 2019?
Joe: Two races really stuck out this year; the crowds and atmosphere at the Lincoln GP and Les 3 Jours de Cherbourg (French 3 day race) because they style of racing is so different.

What was the toughest race in 2019 and why?
Joe: My first Kermesse of the season takes the title of toughest race! On the start line there was not a cloud in sight and was, well, surprisingly warm for a March day in Belgium. With no rain forecast I considered my kit choice appropriate (Shorts, jersey, base layer and arm warmers).

However, after an hour it rained then hailed. In 10 minutes I was frozen through; having lost feeling in my hands, feet and arms it was becoming harder to focus on pedaling. I have never been so cold in my life! I struggled to talk or even move for a while. Thankfully I didn’t have to drive home!

Was there one thing you learned in 2019 that stands out?
Joe: One thing I learned the importance of, was fuelling. I always understood the need for taking on carbohydrates during racing and training. In previous seasons, I often neglected or forgot to eat everything I planned. This year I made it a priority and the benefits were strong in the third or fourth hour.

How long have you been racing?
Joe: 4 years

Is your winter training structured the whole time or a mix of riding the bike easy and then getting serious with top end work?
Joe: My training is structured throughout the whole winter. My coach and I see no benefit in letting all my gains and top end drop off during winter, just to ride around in zone 2 for hours on end. Personally I see no problem with training hard all year round on the proviso I have mini breaks off the bike to fully recover and re-fresh the head.

Do you train alone or is there a chain gang?
Joe: I mostly train alone. I find it easier to maintain a consistent power when I’m not talking. However every so often I drive from Kent to Richmond or Essex to go on group ride. Riding with people does make the ride more enjoyable plus a change in scenery is refreshing!

Finally, what races in 2020 are ones you really want to work towards being part of.
Joe: It’s been a childhood dream to ride the Tour of Britain! I’m hoping there will be an opportunity for me to compete.