Payson McElveen

Payson McElveen, born in Texas, began his cycling journey at an early age, influenced by his father’s involvement in grassroots cycling. His initial passion for competitive cycling led him to pursue a path in mountain biking, a non-impact sport suitable due to a recurring knee injury. In his youth, Payson identified with role models like Todd Wells, which solidified his ambition to enter the professional cycling world. He later attended Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado, where he studied Exercise Science and minored in English Writing, while also engaging with a local development team, Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, which included future notable riders.

McElveen’s career saw a significant turning point in 2014 when his team unexpectedly folded, prompting him to self-fund his racing efforts. He raised approximately $15,000, effectively becoming his own team manager, and achieved strong results that reinforced his belief in his talent and the viability of a self-managed career. This period emphasized the importance of self-reliance and program building. In 2015, after an experience that almost led him to quit the sport, Payson embraced the concept of storytelling in conjunction with results. This new perspective was significantly influenced by his team manager, Jason Sager, and led to an impactful decision to race in Mongolia, which he won dramatically, attracting the attention of major brands like Red Bull.

In 2017, Payson transitioned from a team structure to a fully privateer model, building out a custom Ford Transit van, which became a focal point for media attention and further elevated his brand. This ‘van life’ initiative resonated with the market and contributed to securing his Red Bull sponsorship in 2018. That same year, he won his second consecutive USA Cycling Marathon Mountain Bike National Championship. McElveen then expanded his racing into the gravel discipline, achieving a victory at Mid South and gaining international recognition for his White Rim FKT Film, further solidifying his position as a prominent figure in off-road cycling.