'I don't want to be stopped eating a sausage roll'

From Spectator to Champion: Jack Carlin's Commonwealth Quest Fueled by a Sausage Roll

The sweet, flaky pastry, the savoury warmth of the filling – for many, a sausage roll is a simple, comforting pleasure. For Jack Carlin, it became a potent symbol of what he yearns to achieve. Four years ago, he was in the stands at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games, a wide-eyed spectator dreaming of the day he’d be on the track, not just watching it. Now, with the Commonwealth Games set to return to Scotland next summer, Carlin, a rising star in British cycling, has a singular focus: to right a perceived wrong and, in his own words, "not want to be stopped eating a sausage roll" because he's achieved his goals.

A Taste of Ambition in Glasgow

The memory is still vivid for the 27-year-old sprint cyclist. "I was there, in the crowd, watching everyone compete," Carlin recounts, a hint of nostalgic wistfulness in his voice. "It was incredible. The atmosphere, the passion… it just ignited something in me. I remember thinking, 'I want to be part of this. I want to experience that feeling of representing my country on home soil.'" But it wasn't just the roar of the crowd that fuelled his ambition; it was also the mundane, the everyday. "I even remember, I think I was eating a sausage roll at the time!" he chuckles, the image clearly etched in his mind. "It sounds daft, but it became this little personal marker. I don't want to be stopped from enjoying simple things like that because I haven't fulfilled my potential."

This seemingly trivial anecdote speaks volumes about Carlin's grounded nature and his deep-seated desire to earn his success. It's not about grand pronouncements or ego; it's about the quiet satisfaction of hard work paying off, allowing him to savour life's simple pleasures without the nagging feeling of unfinished business. The Glasgow Games, held in his home country, represented a missed opportunity for him to compete. Now, with the Games returning to the West Midlands in 2026, the narrative has shifted. The spectator has become the contender, and the dream is within touching distance.

The Road to Redemption: From Trackside to Podium

Carlin's journey from the stands to the elite level of track cycling has been a testament to dedication and resilience. He’s not just a participant; he’s a genuine medal contender. His performances at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, where he secured a bronze medal in the team sprint, alongside his individual sprint prowess, have firmly established him as one of the UK's brightest cycling talents. This success, however, only sharpens his appetite for more, particularly on a stage that feels so personal.

"Glasgow was a big one for me, a real 'what if' moment," he admits. "To have the Games back in the UK, it feels like a second chance. It's an opportunity to go out there, perform, and hopefully make everyone proud. And for me personally, it's about ticking that box, about proving to myself that I can deliver when it matters, especially in front of a home crowd." The weight of expectation is undeniable, but Carlin seems to thrive under it. His calm demeanour and focused approach suggest he’s ready to embrace the pressure.

Commonwealth Games: A Unique Platform for British Cycling

The Commonwealth Games hold a special place in the hearts of many athletes. It's a unique competition that brings together nations from across the Commonwealth, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and friendly rivalry. For cycling, it offers a significant platform to showcase the sport's talent, often providing a stepping stone for emerging riders to gain invaluable major championship experience. The calibre of competition is always high, with established cycling nations like Australia, Canada, and New Zealand always posing a strong challenge.

Carlin understands the significance of this stage. "It’s different from the Olympics, isn't it? There’s a real sense of community, of shared history. And for us in the UK, it’s a chance to connect with fans on a more personal level. We're not just representing the nation; we're representing our cities, our regions. That connection is incredibly powerful." His focus on this connection highlights his understanding of the broader impact of sport, beyond individual accolades.

The Sausage Roll Mentality: Fueling the Drive

So, what’s the secret sauce to Carlin's ambition? It’s not just about the training, the diet, or the tactics. It’s about that intrinsic motivation, that personal drive that pushes him to be better. The "sausage roll mentality," as he playfully calls it, is a powerful metaphor for his desire to live life fully, unburdened by regrets. It’s about achieving a state where success allows for simple enjoyment, a reward for the immense effort.

"Look, I love my cycling, I live and breathe it," he says, his tone earnest. "But it's not the *only* thing. I want to be able to enjoy other aspects of life too. And the only way to do that, for me, is to give my absolute best on the bike. To leave nothing on the track. Then, I can sit back, maybe with a sausage roll, and know I've done myself, my team, and my country proud. It’s about earning that peace of mind."

This perspective is refreshingly human. In a world often dominated by hyper-specialisation and relentless pursuit of perfection, Carlin’s acknowledgement of the importance of balance and simple pleasures is a welcome reminder. It suggests a mature athlete who understands that true success isn't just about the medal count, but about the journey, the lessons learned, and the ability to savour the fruits of one's labour.

Looking Ahead: The Road to 2026

As the cycling world gears up for the next cycle of major events, Jack Carlin is undoubtedly one to watch. His determination, coupled with his proven talent, makes him a formidable force. The prospect of him competing on home soil, with the memory of watching from the stands in Glasgow still fresh, adds an extra layer of narrative to his Commonwealth Games aspirations.

"I’m putting in the work," he states, his voice firm with resolve. "Every session, every race, it's all building towards 2026. I want to be at my absolute peak. I want to be in a position where I can challenge for gold. And when I cross that finish line, win or lose, I want to know I gave it everything. Then, I can truly enjoy that sausage roll." The message is clear: Jack Carlin isn't just dreaming of the Commonwealth Games; he's actively working to make his dreams a delicious reality.