Pedaling stories: an Interview with Allan Shaw

How would you describe yourself and your approach to cycling?

I’d describe myself as someone who likes pushing boundaries, not just physically but mentally and emotionally, too. In my life, the bicycle has always been a tool for exploration of the world around me. Whether I’m weaving through city traffic as a courier or riding into the middle of nowhere on some epic endurance event, I’m always seeking a balance between challenge and freedom. For me, it’s less about the podium and more about the journey—finding new places, new people, and new sides of myself.

Your cycling life seems to be ever evolving. What role did courier work play in leading you towards ultra racing? And how has ultra racing directed you down the path of a storyteller?

Working as a bike courier gave me many skills in handling pressure, keeping to tight schedules, and dealing with unpredictability. In a way, it is a perfect intro to endurance racing. You’ve got to make split-second decisions, keep the pace high, and always be thinking a few moves ahead. That mindset transitioned naturally into ultra racing, where you’re constantly strategizing and managing your limits over long distances.

As for storytelling, ultra racing opened up so many opportunities to connect with people and places I might never have otherwise experienced. These events are full of moments—good, bad, and everything in between—that make for compelling stories. Racing is about more than just the ride; it’s the human side of it, the lessons learned in moments of struggle, and the memorable bonds you form along the way.

What is it about ultra-cycling that makes it such an interesting source for stories?

Ultra-cycling is a treasure trove of stories because it strips away all the distractions and gets to the core of who you are and how much you can handle. You’re in a wild place far away from your everyday life. When you're riding through the night, running on Haribo, and battling both the terrain and your own mind, you’re forced to confront parts of yourself that you might otherwise ignore. It’s a space where you can see people at their best and their worst, and that’s where the real stories are born.

How does the narrative aspect of racing influence your own special approach to endurance competition?

I think the narrative element influences me by keeping me focused on the experience, not just the outcome. Every race becomes a story unfolding in real time, and that mindset shapes how I approach challenges during an event. It’s not just about going fast; it’s about capturing those moments that you’ll remember long after the race is over—whether it’s the brutal climbs, the breathtaking views, or the camaraderie you find with fellow racers. I’m always thinking about how these moments fit into the bigger picture, which keeps me grounded and helps me push through when things get tough.

Are there any particular lessons you have learnt from interviewing cyclists in ultra races?

So Many! One big lesson is that everyone has their own unique way of handling the hardships of these races. Some people rely on sheer grit, others on detailed planning, and some just embrace the chaos and roll with it. But regardless of their approach, what they all share is a connection to the process of suffering, growth, and triumph. Listening to their stories has shown me that there’s no right or wrong way to race; it’s about finding what works for you and embracing that journey. I’ve also learned that ultra racers are some of the most humble, down-to-earth people, often because the race itself has a way of humbling you.

What’s an area or group in cycling you hope to shed more light on through your work?

I’d love to shine a light on more of the everyday riders—people who might not be racing at the elite level but are still out there pushing their limits and exploring the world on two wheels. There’s so much focus on the pros, but some of the most inspiring stories come from people balancing regular life with their passion for cycling. I also want to highlight more voices from underrepresented groups—LGBTQ+ riders, as well as more gender and racial diversity—because cycling is so much more diverse than it sometimes appears. There’s a whole world of riders out there whose stories deserve to be told.

How do you think PEdALED fits in with your cycling style?

I feel connected to PEdALED because the ethos is so in tune with how I see cycling—both as an adventure and a way of life. PEdALED doesn’t create gear just for performance; they create it for the long haul. Their kit is designed for real-world use, for riders who care about durability, simplicity, and a good bit of unique style. That aligns perfectly with my approach, too—keeping things functional, but never boring.