From the moment he could walk, Gael Olaya Carrillo, a natural-born cyclist from Benferri, has drawn attention for levels of energy and focus far beyond his seven years. His ascent began on the track of promise and quickly shifted into a display of form that surprised peers and coaches alike. Wearing the number 36, he stepped into the 2024 racing season with a clear goal: to prove that extraordinary talent paired with disciplined practice can redefine what is possible for a young rider. Competing in the First Year Promise Cyclist category under the umbrella of the Illicitana Cycling Union School, Gael earned his place among the sport’s hopefuls, framing his season as a relentless pursuit of excellence. The Alicante Challenger became a proving ground where Gael surged past competitors, conquering all twenty-two tests in succession and clinching the season’s highest score. This remarkable achievement unfolded across a sequence of events in Novelda, Almoradí, Altea, Camp de Mirra, Cox, La Vila Joiosa, San Vicente del Raspeig, Concentáina Tibi, Denia, Benissa, Benferri, San Bartolomé, Elche, Jávea, and Castalla. He also competed in the Valencia Challenger along the canals and the Murcia Challenger in Jumilla, emerging as champion in both, a testament to his stamina and tactical understanding of the sport [Valencian Cycling Federation].
In addition to his string of victories, Gael achieved a notable double podium at Sax, a performance that underscored his rising status in the domestic circuit. His triumphs extended to Crevillente where he claimed the top spot in his category at the Félix Candela Velodrome, illustrating his versatility on track surfaces and in gypsy-style gymkhana settings. The momentum carried into late spring when, at the San Jordi festival on June 25, he entered the Valencian Community Championships and secured the regional champion title in his age group. The achievements of Gael Olaya Carrillo, a young rider from Benferri, have prompted observers to refer to him as the future Indurain of the Valencian Community, a nod to the legendary strength and endurance that he seems destined to channel [Valencian Cycling Federation].