rediscovering the ‘Why’: A Sydney Cyclist’s Journey Beyond the Lens
A recent cycling trip without a camera prompted endurance athlete Felix Oates too reflect on the motivations behind his passion and the pursuit of success in a digitally-driven world.
At 28, many have achieved critically important milestones – a thriving online presence, a fulfilling career, and personal accomplishments. Yet, for Sydney cyclist Felix Oates, a recent broken camera sparked a deeper question: is striving for more truly fulfilling? This led to a cycling adventure north of Sydney with friends, intentionally leaving the recording equipment behind to reconnect with the core essence of the sport.
Oates, who describes himself as a “social impact professional and endurance athlete who writes and creates with deep introspection, curiosity and care,” found himself questioning the performative aspects of sharing his athletic pursuits. “I don’t know how (and if) I want to continue sharing my sport,” he admits. “Am I motivated by others’ perceptions, and are my actions performative at all?”
The Mission: Presence, Enrichment, and New Ways of Being
The impetus for this journey came after Oates’ DJI Action 3 camera – the cornerstone of his YouTube channel – malfunctioned. This presented an prospect to explore his “why” – the underlying drive behind his endurance feats and his definition of success. He sought a space free from the pressure of capturing content, prioritizing fun, presence, and creative inspiration. “Reading and writing create space for me to think, hear, and see,” Oates explains. “Maybe sport can not only expand that space, but truly become intertwined with (and inspire) my creative output.”
To embark on this mission, Oates enlisted the company of two close friends, Matt and Byron. Equipped with a road bike, Topeak saddlebag, Apidura frame bag, PURE Sports nutrition gels, and Clif Bars, the trio set off north from Sydney, aiming to cover 150 kilometers. Recognizing the strength of his companions, Oates adopted a strategic approach: “sit in and load up on coffee!” The first caffeine stop proved memorable, thanks to a “characterful and lovely Italian chap” in Hornsby who playfully described himself as a “passionate fat b*stard” while discussing his homemade sfogliatelle.
Sydney’s Scenic Escape
The ride quickly transported them away from the city’s bustle. Cruising over Mount Kuring-gai, the group encountered “the best descent in Sydney – Brooklyn,” signaling the start of a truly enjoyable experience. kuring-gai land held personal importance for Oates, evoking fond memories of family visits. The route along an old, largely abandoned road, a relic of upgraded motorways, fostered animated conversations and shared smiles.
Continuing onto Peats Ridge Road toward Darkinung land, the cyclists efficiently covered kilometers before turning onto the winding river road. The landscape offered a “heartbreaking reminder of how much was lost.” Despite this historical context, Oates emphasized the kindness and welcoming spirit of the people they encountered.
Day Two and a Renewed Perspective
The following morning, after a brief respite from mosquitos and the sounds of fellow patrons, the group focused on retrieving their bikes, enjoying the remaining bushland scenery, reconnecting with their Italian freind in Hornsby, and completing the journey.
Having previously undertaken enterprising challenges like Everesting and a three-day Sydney to Melbourne ride,Oates finally confronted the underlying motivations driving his pursuits. He questioned the necessity of such monumental feats and whether the need for documentation on platforms like YouTube was the primary driver. He acknowledged the inspirational power of other creators’ videos but realized that leaving the camera behind this time allowed him to reaffirm his love for cycling and adventure.
Ultimately, the 240-kilometer journey led to a profound realization: “it’s bloody enjoyable, and thoroughly enriching.”
Follow Felix Oates on Instagram to learn more.
