Conor White On Track Racing In Glasgow
Bermuda cyclist Conor White is set to become the island’s first track cyclist to compete at the Commonwealth Games when he takes to the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow.
White, who arrived in Glasgow yesterday [July 27], competed in the time-trial and road race at the 2022 Birmingham Games but has since adapted to the track discipline.
The 26-year-old, who races for JAKROO Handsling Racing in England, believes his appearance can help pave the way for future Bermudian track cyclists.
“To be Bermuda’s first-ever track cyclist at the Commonwealth Games will be special,” White told Bernews.
“I hope this is more than just a personal achievement. I hope it’s the beginning of a pathway that inspires more Bermudians to take up track cycling and shows what’s possible for future generations.”
White said the transition from road racing had presented a fresh challenge.
“It’s been a learning curve – it’s almost like starting a new discipline within a sport you’re already good at,” said White, who competed in track at the Pan American Track Championships in Santiago, Chile, in February.
He is expecting a significant step up in class in Glasgow.
“The Commonwealth Games is an Olympic-level competition,” he said. “Some of the riders here have also won Olympic medals.
“It’s definitely a level above the Pan American Games.”
With limited experience competing at this level on the track, White is reluctant to set any expectations before his Commonwealth Games debut.
“I haven’t set myself any targets – it’s hard to know exactly what to expect,” he said.
“I’d like to be in the race and not just hanging on, which I know I’m good enough to do.
“I just want to go out there and see what I can do. I don’t have any specific goals.”
White’s preparations were disrupted by a crash earlier in the season.
“It’s been an up-and-down season,” he added. “I had a crash a while ago and picked up a minor shoulder injury.
“I’m getting back to full fitness now, though.”
He is scheduled to compete in the Scratch Race, the Points Race and the Individual Pursuit.
