Alice McWilliam

We probably don’t tell her enough, but we’re super proud of our Alice. She’s a shining example of how to balance life as a pro rider, whilst maintaining a super-high level of focus and professionalism when it comes to her work for PaceUp. And she does the whole lot with a smile on her face. We couldn’t ask for more.

We wanted to check in with her as we heads towards the tail end of the road season, representing a good time to reflect on what’s come before, and give consideration to what lies ahead. Read the interview below to find out how she makes it all work, what her favourite team kit of all time is, and why she thinks she could learn a thing or two from her younger self…

PU: Season recap! How’s it been going so far?

AM: It’s going. But it’s definitely been a rollercoaster of a season – a lot of ups and downs. It feels like every time I just start to come into really good form, I have a nasty crash. I hasten to add none of which have been my fault. These disruptions wipe me out for a couple of weeks, and then it’s simply a case of restarting the process and building back up, not just physically but also mentally. It’s taking a while to come back from two crashes in June, but I know it’ll come. I have to keep reminding myself that the setbacks only make you stronger.

Saying that I’ve gained a lot of confidence in being a trusted domestique for my teammates. But now, I’m eager to tap back into that race-winning mentality and have the opportunity to fight for myself and deliver a performance I know I’m capable of, with the support of the team.

Fingers crossed for no more crashes and a more positive, straightforward end to the season.

PU: If you could turn up at any race with the best legs of your life… what would it be?

AM: The Olympics or the World Championships. Representing my country would be the dream and the atmosphere at these Olympic Games has been next level. Cycling fans just know how to do it right.

PU: If you could spend 7 days as an animal… what would it be and why?

AM: A boring answer but a dog. They’re so loved by everyone and are a big part of many families. Happiness tends to follow them as they are incredibly friendly whilst also empathetic, and the little things in life make them so content. Plus, a professional athlete is always needing to train, eat, sleep repeat… and this is pretty much what a dog does. I just wish I was better at it.

PU: You balance pro cyclist life against your time at PaceUp. What are the challenges involved in this and how do you manage it?

AM: Managing two very contrasting professional careers is always going to be a challenge, but for me, the hardest has been to compartmentalise the two. Maybe it’s just how my brain works, but I often find myself on a training ride and my head is flooded with thoughts on work. I’m a strong believer that fresh air and different environments help the creativity spark, but I wouldn’t say it’s super productive when I’m thinking about email reports mid-Vo2 effort. Not the one.

Through structuring my days better, I’ve learnt to switch between ‘brains’ at set times and make a conscious effort not to cross the two. Daily goal setting is another great way to trick my brain into knowing that I’ve done all that’s required for work today, and now it’s time to focus on my second career.

Also, time away from my colleagues and not being able to come into the office more. The camaraderie and craic in our office is second to none and so it’s sad not to be able to see my friends more than I do.

PU: What is your favourite pro team kit ever?

AM: I can’t pick out one for ‘best ever’. So I’ll go for my favourite pro team kit this year… FDJ Suez. I’m a big fan of traditional and clean-looking kits, sometimes simple works best.

But saying that. The Tekkerz 2023 season kit was wild. Plus Trinity always delivers something to behold.

PU: What is the best place you’ve ever ridden a bike?

AM: The Lake District and Scotland. I’ve simply not had the chance to explore the typical bucket list cycling locations. Every country I’ve been to has their unique differences, but nothing beats the Lakes in summer or exploring my home roots in Scotland.

PU: What is your favourite book?

AM: ‘How to stop worrying and start living’ by Dale Carnegie. My late grandfather passed it onto me whom I was very fond of, and so I imagine him giving me advice as I journey through life. I often come back to it in times of need and reassurance.

PU: If you could give yourself the advice you needed to hear three years ago, what would it be?

AM: If I’m being totally honest, I could really do with advice from myself three years ago, not the other way around. I wasn’t afraid, I was truly living in the moment and making big commitments. So yeah, the advice would be to “make sure to enjoy it, as it’s not worth doing it if you don’t have the love and passion for it”.