by Dan Ninham, contributing writer
Neilson Powless, an enrolled member of the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin, has literally been climbing higher each year as a world class cyclist.
He placed first in the 2021 Clasica San Sebastian Classic in Spain, first in the 2022 Japan Cup in Japan, first in the GP Marseillaise in France, first in the Etoile de Besseges in France, the leader of the best climber competition in the 2023 Tour de France for 13 days, and recently had a third place finish at the 2024 USA Cycling Pro Road Nationals.
“Last year, I was competing amongst the best cyclists in the world at a consistent level,” said Neilson Powless. “2024 started off difficult with tendonitis halting my spring goals. Luckily, I have recovered already and was able to compete at the USA National Championships in Charleston, WV where I finished third in the Time Trial and third in the Road Race.”
“I am healthy and back on a normal training program leading into the 2024 Tour de France and Olympic Games,” added Powless.
As reported by Gavin Hood in the online Velo magazine on October 26, 2023, Powless signed a contract with EF Education-EasyPost through 2027. He joined the team in 2020. This will be during the time when he is expected to peak in his performance.
Neilson and his older sister Shayna, also a world class cyclist who rides for a Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) sanctioned continental team, have considered using a Haudensaunee, translated as “the people of the Longhouse,” passport on their global travels.
According to Wikipedia, the Haudenosaunee have used passports since 101 years ago when Cayuga tribal member Deskaheh traveled to the League of Nations headquarters in Geneva. The Haudenosaunee Nationals lacrosse teams have had their passports denied by the UK and Canada but also accepted by Ireland.
Is there a chance the Haudenosaunee will be able to compete as a team or as individual athletes in international competition in other sports? How about cycling?
“I would definitely compete under the Haudenosaunee flag if given the opportunity,” said Powless. “This winter, I would like to get my Haudenosaunee passport, and I would like to begin traveling using that form of identity. I’m not sure what the ramifications of this would be.”
“Currently, my residence in France was made through my US passport. If I am able to retain both passports, I am on board,” added Powless.
The self-pride helps drive Powless to compete at the elite level of international cycling: the Tour d’ France. Powless is not only elite as an indigenous athlete; he is elite among all cyclists globally.
“I feel immense pride when racing the Tour de France,” said Powless. “I have established myself as an athlete who can deliver victories. Going into future Tours, I want to prove that I can consistently be with the best in the world.”
Family additions with a wife and baby have happened in the Powless home in the recent past. The team effort is also a family effort while chasing goals to continue to be elite. He and his family were featured in a video called “Family is my tribe” sponsored by EF Pro Cycling and is here:
“This year, I am a new father to Charlotte, who is now eight months old,” said Powless. “It has been amazing having my wife and daughter with me in Europe while I chase this dream.”
Injuries may help athletes re-focus their mind and energy to be stronger when they return.
“This was the first time I experienced an injury that kept me from competing. Having my wife and daughter with me helped keep my mind right when going through rehab,” added Powless.
“I am now back and better than ever,” said Powless.
