Neah Evans says winning gold at next year’s Glasgow Commonwealth Games would be amazing because she feels connected to the 2014 event.
The 34-year-old has had a successful cycling career, winning many medals at the World, European, and Commonwealth levels. She won silver at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics in the women’s team pursuit and again four years later with Elinor Barker in the women’s madison.
Evans only started cycling full-time in 2017, but she believes the 2014 Commonwealth Games played a key role in her journey.
“When big championships happen, people talk a lot about legacy and inspiring others, but for me, it’s real,” she said.
“I wouldn’t have started track cycling if not for the 2014 Commonwealth Games. The Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome was built, and I tried cycling there for the first time.
“I wasn’t a cyclist then—I had never ridden a fixed-gear bike or used clip-in pedals. That event introduced me to track cycling.
“Going back 12 years later to compete would be an incredible experience, and winning gold would be a dream. I know it won’t be easy since the competition is tough, but it’s a big goal for me next season.”
Hitting the Road: A Win-Win Situation
This year, the Aberdeenshire racer will focus on road cycling to step out of her comfort zone.
Evans, who rides for the Handsling Alba Development Team, is the daughter of Ros, a former Team GB cross-country skier at the 1984 Winter Olympics. She wants to challenge herself and explore her competitive side.
She explains that after an Olympic cycle, British Cycling prioritizes younger riders, meaning she will have fewer chances on the track.
“So, it made sense to push myself and focus on road racing, something I have never fully committed to before,” she said.
Although she has done some road races, it was never her main goal or training focus. She has had some success but always wondered what she could achieve with full dedication.
“I believe I have the potential to do well. It’s a big challenge, but it keeps things exciting and fresh,” she added.
She sees this as a win-win situation. If road racing doesn’t work out, she can return to track cycling with British Cycling. But if it goes well, she will reconsider how to balance both disciplines.