“I'm both excited and a little nervous”

Let's give a voice to those who know us best : the riders! The Sa Calobra Cycling Club is a team, your team! Today, an interview with Steven, who talks about his experience at the Sa Calobra Cycling Club.

When did you start cycling?
Steven Dowdell : I started cycling around five or six years ago, shortly after I retired.

Where did you find the Sa Calobra Cycling Club?
S.D I first came across the Sa Calobra Cycling Club on YouTube. The mix of beautiful landscapes, structured training, and the clear sense of camaraderie really stood out. It looked like something I wanted to be part of.

You have been here three times already. What makes you come back?
S.D I have really enjoyed the two camps that I have been on — the first time I came by myself and the second time I brought my adult son with me. The camps are welcoming and really well run, and it's a joy to have everything organised for the whole week so that all we have to do is turn up and ride. As someone who likes to challenge himself and be the best that I can manage, I really like to learn more about how to prepare for and execute long rides, which is exactly what we are taught — and experience, of course.

Do you prepare specially for the camp?
S.D The first camp I attended was in preparation for the Mallorca 312, and I had spent a couple of months preparing especially for the camp. The second camp was over New Year, and I was at the end of a Zone 2 12-week training block and found it much harder going — having to push harder for longer. My third camp will be "mid-season," so I'm looking forward to seeing how that goes for me.

How do you feel about this Alps camp?
S.D I'm both excited and a little nervous. The high Alps will be a new experience for me, so it will be interesting to see how I find them in comparison to the Pyrenees, where I spent a week late last year.

What will be your next cycling challenge after this camp?
S.D I don't have any specific challenges after the camp this July, other than enjoying a summer of cycling — hopefully in the best condition I can be in.