Brett Stoppa – 19 years old – Road Team
Bio
My name is Brett Stoppa. I grew up in North Bay Ontario, but I have always had a connection with Ottawa, racing with the Wheelers, ECG and the last two seasons with the OBC Junior Racing Team. I now live and train in Ottawa during the summer and I go to school at Canadore College taking Aircraft Maintenance and Avionics.
Why / how did I get into cycling.
I have always been exposed and encouraged around cycling. My Dad raced in the early 90s and later as a Master. I started out riding mountain bikes then progressed to the road bike as a U17. As a Junior, I spent many weekends in Milton racing at the velodrome.
Why do you like to race and what is your proudest racing moment?
I enjoy racing because I like the thrill of going fast. Racing helps me to set the bar for my training. It allows me to reach goals and my racing takes me to different places that I would not normally go.
My proudest moment as a bike racer came as a first year Junior when I completed the Tour de L’Abitibi. I went into the race totally overwhelmed but quickly realized that I was capable of racing six days with some of the best Juniors in the world. Another proud moment was last year’s Preston Street Junior Race Criterium. The OBC Junior Racing Team had a plan in place and it all came together, winning the race.
What else do you do for fun other than cycling?
During the school year, I am busy with classes and studying. In the winter, I Nordic ski and I enjoy hanging out with my friends..
What is your favorite ride and why?
My favorite place to ride is in the Gatineau Park but I also really enjoy riding out in the west end of Ottawa (Carp/ Almonte Area).