Scout Lawson
Scout Lawson is a 16-year-old XC MTB racer from Auckland, currently focused on defending his NZ Secondary Schools National title in Tauranga and racing the Whaka 50 in late October. Motivated by the satisfaction of a hard ride done well and the top step of the podium, his long-term goal is to represent New Zealand at the XC MTB World Champs in 2027 or 2028. His biggest challenge was coming back from a bad arm break in late 2025 to make the start line of the 2026 National Champs — six weeks ahead of the doctor's timeline. He tracks training on Strava and Intervals.icu, and ends every day with stretching and foam rolling.
What motivates you to keep on going? The satisfaction of finishing a hard training ride or race, and getting to the top step of the podium.
What's been your biggest challenge? How did you feel when you finished? Getting back to fitness for the 2026 XC National Champs. After breaking my arm in late 2025 I had completely given up on trying to race the Nationals, which had been my big goal to win before the break. After persevering and staying as focused as I could on my rehab, I was able to get back to strength a month and a half earlier than the doctors had initially told me, and get to the start line of the National Champs. It felt pretty awesome that I was able to race in the end, even if I was unable to reach my goal.
Any barriers you overcame to get to this point? A bad break of my arm at the end of 2025.
What is one daily ritual you can't live without? Stretching and foam rolling before bed — a super relaxing way to end the day, and a really good way to build and repair muscle.
Best piece of advice you were ever given? Proper preparation prevents poor performance — something my coach has always told me.
Which That's It product do you always keep on hand? Definitely the chamois cream — it's a life saver out on the trails and on long days in the saddle, and a staple in my riding gear. I've also started using the hot rub for races and have found it awesome for keeping my legs warm and firing for the whole race duration.
What is your fav piece of equipment? The Vittoria Mezcal XC race tyre is definitely one of my favourite bits of equipment at the moment.
What nutrition is your go-to before and after a big mission? Usually eggs on toast after a big ride, and Speed On performance fuel gels during rides.
Are there any apps you use to help with your training? Mainly Strava, but also Intervals.icu.
On a long training day do you listen to anything or think about certain things, or just love the time out? Where does your mind go? Usually I take the time on the bike to clear my head and enjoy being out in nature.
