Kaden Hopkins will race in 2021 with Team Essax. Hopkins comes to the amateur group of the Sax Cycling Club ready to take a leap in quality in his cycling after standing out in Bermuda, Hopkins features in a Q&A with ALICANTE the BIG PLATE.
Q. - What stands out the most from your record?
My main triumphs as a junior included multiple National Champion titles in time trial and road race, as well as being the winner of the Caribbean Regional in time trial on two occasions. As an under 23, I have had some results, including being the current elite national time trial champion and the Caribbean time trial under 23 champion, and in my freshman year. In 2020 I also went to the National Independence Tour in the Dominican Republic. It's a seven-day stage race, I was the best Under 23.
Q. -How do you define yourself as a cyclist?
I am an SUV. I haven't had a lot of experience on very long climbs as we don't have any in Bermuda, but I hope to evolve on that terrain. I think that thanks to my ability in time trial I will be able to adapt well to longer climbs. However, in time trials, sprints and shorter climbs I am confident in my ability to compete and be with the best.
Q. -Why did you choose Team Essax?
Because it is an ambitious formation that will seek the maximum in each race, not only to participate. It has always been my dream to be able to run Europe and this opportunity could not be missed. Also, I know that being in Alicante, which is not only one of the most beautiful places but also one of the best places chosen by cyclists to train, will have a great impact on my development as a runner. As soon as the offer came to me I knew that this was exactly what I needed to grow in this sport.
Q. -What balance do you make of 2020?
It has been a very hard year not only for me as a cyclist, but for everyone. Personally, setting goals was difficult. With the pandemic, almost all races were canceled and I had to concentrate solely on training. However, this meant that I was able to do a lot of miles on the bike and build my endurance a lot. This is something that I will carry out in the 2021 season and it will give me a solid foundation to build on when the races start.
Q. -What goals are set for 2021?
Above all, help the Essax team in what it can to achieve its objectives. On a personal level, I hope to gain experience and strength in my career to get closer to my dream of becoming a professional.
Q. -Who is your reference in the professional peloton?
My idol is Mathieu Van der Poel because of his fearless and cheeky racing style.
Q. -Who is Kaden outside of cycling?
I am a person who likes to spend time with friends and family. I like to travel and get to know new places and cultures different from mine.
Q. -Do you know Alicante?
I have never been to Alicante, but it has been a dream for me to go there for many years. Since I first saw photos and videos of the landscape and cycling, I have wanted to visit that province of Spain. Now, thanks to Team Essax, I am lucky to be able to be there for the entire season. It is a really beautiful place where I hope to spend the year, make friends and grow as a cyclist.
Q. -When do you plan to come to Spain?
I hope to go to Spain in February, to familiarize myself with the terrain and train with my teammates before my racing season begins.
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