Thomas Gloag's career is soaring after his departure from Visma, with a stellar performance at the Volta ao Algarve. The British talent secured fifth place on the final stage, climbing alongside the race's top climbers. After three seasons with Team Visma | Lease a Bike, Gloag joined the Pinarello Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team, firing on all cylinders. In an interview, he humorously noted, 'The guys at the front are very, very quick. And Frederik Frison is the man. He’s fantastic. I don’t see any sun behind him, I don’t even need any sun cream.'
Gloag's performance was a testament to his dedication and training. He rode to 10th on the climb to the Alto da Fóia on stage 2, showcasing his early-season form. Despite a derailment in the race's time trial, which resulted in an 11th-place finish, the climbs were his target, and he delivered on the final stage. On a challenging day, the Briton rode to fifth on the 2.6-kilometer long final climb, alongside Juan Ayuso, Paul Seixas, João Almeida, and Oscar Onley, until the final sprint.
This success follows a rigorous winter training period. Gloag expressed his appreciation for the team's commitment, mentioning a three-and-a-half-week training camp in Chile with seven teammates in January. He aims to build on this momentum, targeting the Ardèche classics and future spring races, as well as the Grand Tours. Gloag's natural progression and improved endurance, coupled with a different environment, have contributed to his success.
His first pro win at the 2024 Czech Tour and notable results during his time at Visma have positioned him as a formidable rider. Gloag acknowledges his past challenges with endurance and consistency, attributing them to a lack of volume and health issues. However, he is now reaping the rewards of his hard work and dedication, setting the stage for a promising future in professional cycling.
