Scotland's most decorated track cyclist, Neah Evans, admits a bout of illness has derailed her build‑up for the home Commonwealth Games. The 35‑year‑old, a double Olympic silver medallist, said she can no longer day‑dream about podium finishes; her immediate goal is simply to be fit enough for a competitive ride. Illness has limited her training over the past year, leaving her frustrated but realistic.

Evans arrives in Glasgow with five Commonwealth medals – three silvers and two bronzes – but acknowledges she is far from the form she displayed a year ago. While she feels stronger than last season, she concedes progress is uneven and that a tactically perfect race could still yield a medal despite sub‑optimal fitness.

The Games also mark a generational shift for Scottish cycling. Katie Archibald retired after a freak accident halted her Paris Olympic bid, and Jack Carlin stepped away in October. Para‑cycling legend Neil Fachie hinted Glasgow could be his swan song. Evans warned that “life can throw curveballs,” recalling Archibald’s abrupt exit.

Despite the setbacks, Evans says she will give Glasgow everything she can, keeping an eye on a possible 2028 Los Angeles Olympic run. She stresses that enjoyment still drives her, and if the sport stops bringing pleasure she will return to a conventional job. Glasgow will therefore be her final test of resilience.