Nick Bergen’s competitive cycling career was anything but ordinary. Beginning at 27, he quickly climbed the ranks, transforming a hobby into a professional career marked by victories and competition at the top levels across North America and Europe.

Then, when the COVID-19 pandemic brought competitive cycling to a standstill, Nick’s career came to an unexpected pause.

“At the time, I was working as a server and needed to find a new path,” he explains. “So, I pivoted and started my own business, helping cyclists across North America and even as far away as Colombia in South America.”

It was during this time that one of the athletes he coached mentioned a job opening with the Manitoba Cycling Association. Nick decided to take a chance and apply. 

That decision has now led him to the exciting role of leading Team Manitoba’s cycling squad at one of the nation’s most competitive sporting events — the 2025 Canada Summer Games.

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Learning the Value of Teamwork 

With the Summer Games approaching, Nick’s focus is on more than just fitness. While the athletes are in peak form, many of them have been training and racing across the country and even overseas. Now, it’s about bringing them together as one team.

“It’s about figuring out how to work together and what tactics we’ll use, what to watch for on the course,” Nick explains. “It’s also about building that connection, getting to know each other, and learning how we ride as a unit.”

With team members ranging in age from 15 to 20, Nick recognizes that age diversity brings both opportunity and complexity. Each athlete has different needs and maturity levels, and fostering unity while meeting those individual needs is key.

“A big part of my role is helping them develop tailored training plans,” he says. “We want to make sure they’re progressing steadily and growing their engines, both on the bike and in the gym.” 

Watching that growth firsthand is one of the most rewarding parts of coaching for Nick.

“It’s incredible,” he says. “These athletes are changing so quickly both physically and mentally, and getting to be part of that development as they evolve into elite cyclists is amazing.”

Above all, Nick wants his athletes to learn from each moment, good or bad, and carry those lessons forward.

“It’s about seeing them take something that didn’t work, shift their mindset, and have that ‘Aha!’ moment where it all clicks,” Nick says. 

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The Road Ahead

This summer, Nick’s athletes will face Canada’s best in both road and mountain biking events. The competition is fierce, but Nick sees this as an advantage.

“Our program is designed to launch athletes into those kinds of environments. Now, we bring them back to race together as a team, and it’s all about learning how to work together tactically.”

Nick says the team is aiming for a mix of goals. For some, it’s about chasing the podium. Standout riders like Soren Weselake and Tyler Hartle have been having breakout seasons and are poised for success. For others, especially younger athletes, it’s about learning. 

“Whether it’s a great result or a tough day on the course, every moment is a chance to grow,” Nick says.

At the core of the team’s progress is their work ethic. 

“We provide the structure,” he adds. “But the athletes are the ones who show up, push themselves, and make it all happen.”

As far as goals go, Nick is focused on more than just medals. He is proud to watch his athletes develop, support one another, and enjoy the process.