Trident High School cyclist Jacques Collombet has embarked on the biggest opportunity of his young cycling career as he races against some of the world’s best junior riders in Europe.

After several years of competing around New Zealand, the 16-year-old has been selected to represent New Zealand overseas after applying for the opportunity through a post on the Cycling New Zealand Facebook page.

It’s something he thought would help his cycling career.

“I saw it advertised and decided to fill out an application,” he said.

“I wasn't too sure if I would get selected, so it was pretty exciting when the opportunity came through.”

Collombet left late last month for a month-long tour, beginning with criterium races in Belgium before heading to the Netherlands to compete in the 2026 Watersley Junior Challenge.

While he knows the racing will be on another level, he's embracing the challenge.

“I’m expecting it to be quite a bit harder than racing in New Zealand, but I’m really looking forward to racing against some of the best riders in the world.”

Despite the magnitude of the trip, nerves aren’t part of his mindset.

“I’m excited. I wouldn't say I'm nervous – I don't really want to go into it feeling nervous. I just want to look forward to the experience and make the most of the racing.”

His 2026 season has been mixed. It began with disappointment at the Elite Road National Championships when he was caught up in a crash after another rider fell in front of him.

Since then, he has rebuilt his form through local club racing, events in Tauranga and the iBUILT Junior Tour in Auckland, where he finished sixth overall after producing consistent performances across the multi-day stage race.

Collombet discovered cycling in year 7 or 8, thanks to his older sister, Lily.

“When she was cycling, I wanted to go along with her,” he said.

“I also did a couple of triathlons and decided cycling was my favourite discipline.”

Now in year 12 and competing in the under-19 age group for the first time, Collombet said earning selection for the New Zealand team is already the biggest achievement of his cycling journey.

Although he heads to Europe with the ambition to compete at the front, he knows the experience will also be an important learning opportunity.

“My mindset is always that I want to race to win, but I also know it will be a big learning experience because I don't really know what to expect from racing overseas yet.”

His sister has also raced overseas, and while he hasn't yet sought her advice, he plans to ask about adapting to life in a team environment.

“Most of the cycling I’ve done so far has been by myself, so that will be a new experience for me.”

Collombet also acknowledges the support that has helped him reach this point, paying tribute to his coach.

“Special thanks to my coach, Clinton Avery, for supporting me and guiding me through my races,” he said.