A new era may have just started for the NSN Cycling Team, but there has been a distinctly familiar work ethic and atmosphere at the start of our winter training camp.
“The hotel lobby area is constantly full of people from the team, with guys playing cards, others working on their computers, or those just catching up for a coffee and a chat,” says Sam Bewley, the team’s Head Sports Director, after the latest training rides in southern Spain concluded.
“Of course, there is a lot of 2026 planning going on and plenty of meetings taking place, but what I am really noticing and enjoying is the vibe across staff and riders’ groups.
“It really speaks to our team culture and widespread inclusivity. It has been a great camp so far!”
As the team’s longest-tenured rider, Canadian Guillaume Boivin is currently experiencing his 10th pre-season camp. It’s a testament to his selfless nature and dogged determination.
Boivin says: “Wow, 10 – that sounds correct! November and December camps have definitely changed in general during my time as a pro. We’re already training pretty hard and planning the performance side of the season.
“When I started racing, they were mainly bonding camps – and maybe some drinking – at this time of the year. The initiation night still allows us to have a bit of fun – that’s still important as cycling is a team sport, we need to create that team spirit and be a unit when we get to the races, and we’ve got a lot of new guys here across the WorldTour and Devo teams.”
The 36-year-old (pictured above) knows what it’s like to be part of a team that starts a season on a high in Australia, and he says the form of those beginning the season outside of Europe hasn’t gone unnoticed.
“The boys going to Down Under are really going well,” Boivin adds. “They’ve clearly put a lot of hard work down already.”
For Australian rider Brady Gilmore, the camp effectively marks the start of his professional career. Aged 24, he’ll step up our WorldTeam next year, having graduated from our Development squad following an eight-win season in 2025.
“It’s different from the other camps I’ve been to as there are a lot more people here, but it’s also noticeably more structured, which makes sense given how close we are to the new season,” says Gilmore.
“It’s nice to come and ride with my teammates. Being around the whole team has been great – having the mechanics, soigneurs, medical, and logistics staff here to begin the camp has definitely contributed to the atmosphere.
“There’s a really high energy as we’ve got lots of exciting new things coming. Everybody’s bringing the right attitude to the camp.”