Making his rise after a year of injury and illness, Tasmanian Scott Bowden is back on his bike and has hit his stride racing around the European countryside.

Where did you grow up in Hobart and where do you live now?

Rosetta, Tasmania. I’ve been living in Bourg en Bresse, France since March but am staying in Girona, Spain for the European winter.

Tell us a little about your work?

I am a full-time cyclist and coach on the side. I ride both mountain and road, and am currently training with the amateur French team, Bourg-en-Bresse Ain Cyclisme.

What does everyday life look like for you when training and riding competitively?

For the typical training day, it isn’t that busy, so the day revolves around nailing the training. After a slow morning fuelling up with a nice brekky, coffee, keeping in touch with friends and family back home I’ll generally start training around 10am – 12pm for 3-5hrs. In the season there are races most weeks which involves a lot of travel which is quite tiring on top of the physical demands. This time of year, it’s nice to be in one location for a decent period of time, going to the gym a couple of afternoons a week and spending time with friends.

How has your training in Tasmania prepared you for riding overseas?

Being no stranger to inclement weather is probably the biggest thing Tassie has prepared me for and having always trained on plenty of hilly roads!

Has there been a moment since leaving Australia that you have been most proud of?

Winning my third race back after a long time off sick.

Where are you off to next to compete?

I’m spending the European winter in the north of Spain where the weather is a little warmer and I’ve got quite a few friends. Next season will start in the south of France in mid-February.

What do you love doing outside work?

I love going camping, bush walking, swimming, and barbecues.

Who do you admire?

Anyone who persists in doing what they love.

Favourite podcast or tv show?

I am currently listening to the Stanley Street Social podcast.

Secret vice? There is nothing better than a hot bath after a big day in the saddle.

What are you reading now?

Open by Andre Agassi.

What was your first job?

Funnily enough, working in a bike shop.

What are your daily news/social media habits?

I usually stream ABC News Live on YouTube over breakfast and communicate with people back home via video call, Messenger or voice messages regularly.

Your favourite place (in Hobart) for…

Breakfast: Machine Laundry

Lunch: Criterion Street cafe

Dinner: Frank Restaurant

Favourite Hobart secret?

The view from Mt Faulkner is pretty special.

Favourite French saying you’ve picked up?

Very basic but probably on y va, which means let’s go!

Parting words?

It’s great to experience other places around the world but Tassie is always home – Hobart is the best place in the world.