Joseph Pidcock has singled out his stage win at Dornan Rás Mumhan in Co Kerry last Easter as confirmation of a major breakthrough - in both cycling and personal terms - after his ADHD diagnosis just months earlier.
Pidcock was riding for Trinity Racing when he won the final stage in Kerry last year and has since signed for Q36.5 Pro Cycling Team, along with his brother Tom Pidcock, after he exited Ineos Grenadiers.
And now the younger of the two brothers has spoken about how being diagnosed with ADHD, then starting medication, resulted in rapid progress for him, which culminated in his win in Kerry; his first victory for over three years.
Though he says he has a lot more work to do on himself, he noted he then went on to win more races last year, including the final stage at Ronde de l'Isard (2.2U), one of the most prestigious U23 events on the international calendar.
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He explained he started on medication in November, 2023, shortly after being diagnosed with ADHD. It felt as if he "suddenly stopped walking through three feet deep water like I had all my life".
"Within four months I won my first race in over three years," he said of winning the stage at Dornan Rás Mumhan into Killorglin. "Another month later I won my first UCI race.
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"It’s not like the meds are magic, they couldn’t fix my concussion or cure Covid that ruined the rest of my year. I still need to see a phycologist every week and I’m not saying I don’t have to work my ass off for what I want.
"But before, I was always felt depressed and unmotivated. I had a hard time socialising, making and especially keeping friends. And that’s not just motivation for cycling, it’s everything. Like seeing friends, cooking dinner, texting my mum back, going to sleep, getting out of bed.
"I think the hardest part of it was I was incapable of helping myself. I didn’t even realise it wasn’t normal and I couldn’t have sorted any of this out without help.
"It’s very possible I have Aspergers and ADHD but I don’t think the label matters. I don’t want sympathy for any of this. I just think the world thinks ADHD means you can’t sit still in school, but from my experience it’s a lot more sinister than that.
"It was like having to learn everything in life at 21. I’ve come a long way but I think it’s fair to say I’ve still work to do."
Pidcock said he "owes everything" to his family and encouraged others who may be in similar situation to reflect on themselves and do some research as it could help change their lives. He was also looking forward to his time with his new team.
"I believe I’ve found my new home I’m really grateful and excited for the years ahead," he said. "I wouldn’t have accepted a place here if I didn’t think I was capable. I’ll make sure it’s worth everyone’s time."
