Drew Taylor

UCI Gravel World Series OG Classique. 122 km, Wakefield, QC. THE ROAD IS FREE.

5 years ago, I started my cycling journey with a dream of competing on the world stage within 5 years. Last Sunday I made my attempt and failed.

I'm gutted I didn't qualify for the World Championships, but I tried my best and narrowly missed out, finishing 10th of 32 in my category, with the top 9 being selected. About 3 minutes separated me from qualifying.

What if I didn't drop my water bottle and go back for it at km 20? What if I didn't take a wrong turn at km 27 and have to backtrack? Over the past week, my mind was riddled with these "what if" scenarios. The reality is I raced well and it just wasn't enough.

I have a lot of improvement to do, and I don't think my cycling journey is over yet. I still want to smash, but I don't know why. For now, at least, I don't have the fire of a 5 year goal motivating me. My will is floundering. Sometimes racing is about disappointment more so than victory.

But, there's one thing I'm sure of. The road is free. I'll ride it fast. No result can take that away from me. No rule book, police officer, or stop light can take that away from me. Give me a ticket for speeding and leave me alone, because I'll be on the open road, riding faster than ever, and you can't stop me. THE ROAD IS STILL FREE.