Hopkins Set For Lead Role In Guadeloupe
[Written by Stephen Wright]
Bermuda cyclist Kaden Hopkins is set for a lead role for French team Vendee U when he competes in the upcoming Tour of Guadeloupe.
Hopkins has enjoyed an impressive debut season for Vendee U, a Division One development outfit for Team TotalEnergies, and said the Tour of Guadeloupe – a UCI 2.2 stage race – is the biggest race of the season for his team.
“Vendee U have given me one of the leading roles in the general classification,” Hopkins told Bernews. “They know I’ll do well in the two time-trial races, and several stages should suit me.
“The team have given me the freedom to go for stages. The GC is the main target. Hopefully, I can have some good days.
“We’re a pretty well-rounded team. We have guys better in the climbs, good all-rounders, and punchy riders. We’ll target as many stages as possible.”
The 23-year-old is one of Vendee U’s more experienced riders and said he is determined to reward the faith the team director and staff have shown him.
“The team value the experience I bring,” he said. “I’m probably a little calmer and more mature when making decisions in the heat of the moment.
“This is a big opportunity for me; I’m looking forward to it.”
Hopkins fondly remembers his previous appearance at the annual men’s multiple-stage race in 2021, competing as a guest rider for Dominican team Inteja.
He achieved top-three finishes in the opening prologue and intermediate sprint competition, clinching 21st place in the general classification, and first caught the eye of Vendee U, who he joined in October last year.
“The Tour of Guadeloupe a special race for me,” said Hopkins, who starts competing on Friday. “It’s where Vendee U first noticed me.
“They kept in touch for the next year and decided to sign me. It’s cool to be going back to Guadeloupe with them.”
Hopkins, who will race at the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, in October-November, added: “I’ve had tonnes of racing and learned a lot this season. I’ve been pretty consistent lately. I’m trying to finish the season strongly.”
