Exactly one year ago, Matthew Holmes, a rider for Lotto Soudal, achieved his first professional victory in what became a fairy tale beginning to his career in the WorldTour. Holmes won the queen stage of the Santos Tour Down Under by conquering Willunga Hill. Reflecting on that momentous day, Holmes recalls his doubts and eventual triumph.
“Winning the queen stage of the Tour Down Under was something really special,” says Holmes. “During the first days of racing, I was really struggling and I wasn’t as good as I had hoped. I even thought of giving up on it. The day before the final stage, I went out to eat a little something together with my parents when I told them that I doubted if I was good enough for WorldTour level.”
Despite his doubts, Holmes went on to describe how he found himself in a breakaway during the final stage and realized he was the strongest among them. “At that moment, I knew that if we could stay away, I would have a chance of winning the stage. I knew Richie Porte would be catching us quickly and luckily, I got over the most difficult part of the climb before he caught me. When I was told Richie was coming, I was quite sure I was going to win as I could get on his wheel and I knew he didn’t have anything left for the sprint as he closed down a big gap before.”
Looking ahead to the upcoming season, Holmes remains focused and determined. While he acknowledges the impact of his victory at the Santos Tour Down Under, he states that it didn’t change much for him. “Apart from boosting my confidence, winning the queen stage at the Tour Down Under didn’t change much,” he explains. “I obviously made a name for myself straight away, but I kept on training just as hard and I tried my best in every single race.”
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, including his inability to join his teammates at the January training camp in Spain, Holmes remains motivated and committed to his training. “At the moment, Britain is again in full lockdown and sadly, the Spanish government decided that British people are not allowed to enter Spain. Luckily, I am able to train outside, but the weather conditions are quite harsh,” Holmes reveals.
Although he faces these obstacles, Holmes is eager for the upcoming season and has his sights set on securing a stage win in a Grand Tour. He remains grateful for the opportunity to pursue his passion for cycling and continues to work towards his goals.
As Holmes prepares for the challenges and victories that lie ahead, he reflects on the significance of his maiden victory and the support of his parents at the finish line. The memory of that incredible day serves as a reminder of what he can accomplish and motivates him to strive for more success in the future.
