Having made the switch to Road from his Mountain Biking background Paul has turned heads in 2019 with some great performances, starting at Nationals in NZ and then in Europe with the National Team and Zappi racing.
We always enjoy catching up with Paul who puts his unique view on things. This is what he had to say:
ESP: What does it mean to you to wear the NZ kit?
PW: Its really cool to represent NZ its really special to me. The kit is some of the most well kit iv ever ridden in!
ESP: What do you think of the venue and the course?
PW: Haven’t ridden it yet but looks like a sick track, heard the roads are grippy up there so gunna be a big job for sure!
ESP: Do you have specific goals you would like to achieve this year?
PW: Not really, came into the road scene a bit of a passenger and just took it how it came. Just trying to get after it as hard as possible but still enjoy the ridding and have a good time.
ESP: How do you see worlds fitting into your progression as an elite cyclist?
PW: For sure good to get the call up for worlds, but still need to get after it for teams to notice you.
ESP: Cycling as a professional and racing in Europe has its challenges. You have had a big year and a long time overseas. What are some of the challenges you have faced getting this far and specifically into your lead into Worlds?
PW: The euro season has been super chilled out this year, I have managed to obtain a Belgium family that looks after me. The last race in Norway hit a hole pretty hard and did some damage to the old ribs, but they will be all good.
ESP: For young riders aspiring to represent NZ what to you encourage them to do in pursuit of this goal?
PW: Get after it and have fun, but still go on the odd death training ride
ESP: Lastly, you have had a big year and with Worlds not far off the end of the season is close. What are your plans for 2020 and what do you hope to achieve next year?
PW: Gunna be with the Zappi boys once again, should be good fun. Im looking forward to trying to improve on this season.
