Community Champion: Steve Scoles
From Competitor to Announcer: Celebrating Steve Scoles’ Impact on Manitoba Cycling
By Stephanie Keith
November 1, 2024
Steve Scoles has been a vital part of Manitoba’s cycling community for almost 40 years. It all started back in 1986 when he joined his first ride, inspired by his sibling’s love for fitness. What began as a way to cross-train for hockey quickly turned into a lifelong passion.
Steve’s first race was at the Thompson Nickel Days Classic in 1987 when he was just 15. Despite a tough criterium, he won both the time trial and road race, and from that moment, he was hooked. Moving to Winnipeg for university opened up new opportunities for him, allowing him to race for the provincial team and earn podium finishes in the Provincial Road Championships. One race stands out in his mind: the 1993 Cobblestone Classic. In the excitement of Winnipeg’s Exchange District, he took a dramatic fall on Princess Street, breaking his collarbone. An iconic photo of that moment even landed him on the cover of the Winnipeg Sun.
While Steve has made a name for himself as a competitive cyclist, his contributions to the sport extend beyond racing. As a teenager, he took on the challenge of organizing the Thompson Nickel Days Classic in 1989 when he was just 17, keeping the event alive after the previous organizers moved away. His commitment to the community only grew from there. After reluctantly agreeing to announce at the 1995 Western Canada Track Championships, Steve discovered a new passion for bringing events to life. He has since become the unmistakable voice at cycling events across Manitoba, infusing energy and excitement into everything from the 1999 Pan Am Games to the unforgettable Cyclocross Nationals in 2014 and 2015. “That year, CX Nationals in Winnipeg became something truly special—thanks to everyone in the Manitoba cycling community,” he reflects. This event remains one of his most cherished memories, showcasing the unity and passion of Manitoba’s cyclists.
Steve has also taken his announcing skills to a larger stage, recently lending his voice to the 2022 and 2023 National Road Championships and the 2023 World Junior Championships in Cross-Country Skiing. Yet, his heart is always with the local cyclocross races, where community spirit shines.
He encourages others to find their own niche in cycling. “There are many different roles,” he says, inviting newcomers to pursue what they love. Whether it’s coaching, organizing events, or cheering on fellow cyclists, every contribution is vital to building a strong community. When people engage with what resonates with them, they can make a real difference while enjoying the process.
We are proud to celebrate Steve Scoles, a true Community Champion whose dedication and vision have shaped Manitoba’s cycling scene. His journey reminds us all of the impact one person can have in a community, inspiring us to ride, cheer, and support each other. Thank you, Steve, for being the voice of Manitoba’s cycling community. Your announcing brings events to life and connects cyclists across the province.
Livestreaming at the Cyclocross Nationals
Cobblestone Classic
Team Manitoba in Minnesota 1993 -Steve in the white helmet on the right.