Scott Mercier

Scott Mercier is an American former Olympic cyclist known for his rapid ascent in the sport of professional cycling. Mercier earned a place on the U.S. Olympic Cycling Team for the Barcelona Games after just 15 months of competitive racing, an uncommon achievement in U.S. cycling. A valedictorian of his high school class, Mercier holds a degree in economics from U.C. Berkeley and a master's in finance from Harvard University Extension School. He became Telluride, Colorado's first Olympian, representing Team USA at the Barcelona Games.

After his Olympic debut, Mercier began a professional cycling career, competing internationally and riding with the Saturn team, where he secured several stage wins in U.S.-based stage races. His top results include overall victories at the Rapport Tour and Giro del Capo. Mercier later joined the U.S. Postal Service Professional Cycling Team and participated in the Vuelta a España, one of cycling's grand tours. During his time with the U.S. Postal Service team, Mercier faced a pivotal decision when presented with a training schedule and performance-enhancing drugs. Choosing not to participate in doping, he left professional cycling, a decision that distinguished his career during an era marked by widespread doping scandals.

Mercier's commitment to clean sport was recognized by the United States Anti-Doping Agency, highlighting his career as a clean athlete. He detailed his experiences in the book "Win True: How You Win Matters On and Off the Bike," which explores his journey in elite cycling and the ethical choices he made. The book addresses themes of training, decision-making, and integrity, and has contributed to Mercier's speaking engagements on topics such as moral courage, leadership, and sports ethics. He has spoken at institutions including West Point Academy, the Naval Academy, and the Air Force Academy, as well as at Northstar Meetings Group's Destination West.

Mercier continues to address issues of integrity and ethical decision-making in sports and business. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional and holds the Certified Private Wealth Advisor® designation. Mercier has served as chair of the Community Hospital Board of Trustees, as a board member of Roaring Fork Cycling, and writes a cycling column for Aspen Times. Through his work with athletes, corporate audiences, and students, Mercier offers insights on leadership, integrity, and the challenges of maintaining ethical standards in competitive environments.