 The Australian Cycling Team is pleased to announce categorisation of athlete membership to the Para-cycling road and track program for 2019. The categorisation follows the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships at which Australia finished second on the medal standings with a total haul of 17 medals including nine gold. "I am very pleased to announce the Para-cycling Athlete Membership to the Australian Cycling Team for 2019," said Para-cycling Technical Director Warren McDonald. "The depth across both disciplines of para-cycling is very promising for our campaign ahead of Tokyo 2020." Members of the road program will depart Australian shores later this month for the opening two rounds of the UCI Road World Cup Series to be held in Italy and Belgium in May. The team for the 2019 UCI Road World Championships, to be held in the Netherlands in September, will be announced on June 5. Athlete Membership for 2019
Podium
Podium Ready
Podium Potential
0 Comments
 Photo Casey Gibson Australia has finished second on the overall standings behind Great Britain with nine gold and a glittering 17-medal haul at the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in the Netherlands.
The Australian team’s results were highlighted by dual gold to David Nicholas (QLD), Alistair Donohoe (VIC) and outstanding debutant Paige Greco (SA), who broke two world records. Emily Petricola (VIC) and Amanda Reid (NSW) also celebrated victories and world records, while Darren Hicks (SA) claimed an emotional maiden world title. Paige Greco, a former athletics stand out who has been cycling for little more than twelve months, dominated the individual pursuit and the time trial on the opening two days of competition. “I am very happy, two good rides, I still can’t believe it," said Greco, 22. "I’ve only been in the sport for a short time but this has given me the determination to keep training and working on the things I need to improve on. "I’m already looking forward to getting back into training and keep working at it.” Victoria's Alistair Donohoe claimed his fifth and sixth career world titles victories in the C5 individual pursuit and scratch race. "This team is backing each other so much and creating such a positive environment I think it's really bringing the most of all the riders,” said Donohoe, 24. ‘It is one of the most relaxed and constructive teams I've been amongst.” “Thank you to the Cycling Australia coaches on this trip for putting in the finishing touches and ironing out the wrinkles to allow me to stand on the top step today. The support around me is second to none and it feels as though I've had the easiest job out of them all!" Like Donohoe, David Nicholas pulled on rainbow jerseys in both the individual pursuit and scratch race. “It feels so awesome, I can't explain the feeling,” said Nicholas, 27, after claiming a third straight world crown in C3 individual pursuit. “It takes a lot of effort to stay on top, but it is all worth it to get the rainbow jersey! “Thanks so much to Cycling Australia for all the help and support this year. Thanks to my coach Nick Formosa for everything he has done for me.” Darren Hicks was in disbelief after claiming his maiden world title in the individual pursuit. “Right now I think I’m feeling every emotion possible. I am excited and relieved, I can't quite comprehend that I've finally got my first world championship and rainbow jersey... it's crazy!” The World Championship victory capped off a difficult year for Hicks, who in January, had charges against him dropped for a 2014 freeway truck crash that killed two people, the same accident in which he lost his right leg. “It has been a full on year, it was a long, agonising, very expensive road but it's behind me now, and I can finally focus on my racing. “I would like to say thanks to everyone that's helped me get to where I am today. I'm very grateful for all the opportunities I have been given and am glad I could bring home the chocolates for the first time on the big stage!” Melbourne's Emily Petricola took both the world record and world title in the C4 individual pursuit and revealed the meticulous planning undertaken since winning silver at 2018 World Championships after also breaking the world record in qualifying. "I spent a lot of time over the course of the last twelve months identifying exactly what went wrong last year and what I needed to change so I didn't have the same outcome this year," said Petricola, 38. "I worked hard with both Shane Kelly and Cameron Jennings on controlling my riding in qualifying, as I do tend to get a bit excited on race day. But I did my best to follow the instructions being given to me throughout and, thankfully, we executed two good, fast rides to get the rainbows." Sydney's Amanda Reid broke the world record in the C2 time trial on her way to winning a third career world title. "It took a while to sink in, I couldn’t believe the time I had just ridden,” said Reid, 22. "Now that it has all sunk in, the feeling is unbelievable, a world title is amazing and the world record on top of that is like a dream come true for me. "I am truly fortunate to be surrounded by an amazing support system and without them, this wouldn’t be possible." Cycling Australia Para-cycling Technical Director Warren McDonald paid tribute to his predecessor and also the state-based programs for the platform for the successful World Championships. “I would firstly like to thank Peter Day for building such a strong Para-cycling program,” said McDonald, who assumed the role from Day last September. “We have worked hard with staff and team coaches to provide a fantastic team environment for these Championships. “The rider’s domestic coaches have delivered their athletes to the national program in fantastic condition and need to be commended on this preparation which has resulted in such a successful World Championships.” Australian Team Medals (17) Gold (9)
Silver (5)
Bronze (3)
Victoria's Alistair Donohoe claimed a fifth career world title with stirring victory in the C5 individual pursuit at the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in the Netherlands.
In a near personal best ride (4:27.456) to top the afternoon qualifying session, Donohoe overtook his Ukrainian opponent Yehor Dementyev in the final to take the world title.
"I was a bit nervous and unsure going into today's rides really," said Donohoe. "I knew I was in really good shape from the summer of racing I've had, just wasn't sure how that would translate into times today!
"I knew going in I just had to really control the start and not go out too hot, I'd seen a lot of people earlier on going out really quickly and paying for it in the tail end of their pursuit. Being round seven of nine, I still had three really good riders coming up behind me to I just had to put them out of my mind and try to execute the best ride I could and be happy with that. "Happy, surprised, pumped, shocked, that's probably how I was feeling after the qualifying time. I didn't think I had that time in me but the coaches believed in me and I believed in them so it worked! "Heading into the final, I had the same thoughts again, just go out and ride your ride for the first half of the four kilometres, then worry about racing him. I was lucky enough to put some good time into him early and get the catch so it made for a short and sweet final round. "Overwhelmed and happy as Larry I am!"
After claiming his fifth career world title - second on the track - Donohoe paid tribute to the team and his support staff. "This team is backing each other so much and creating such a positive environment I think it's really bringing the most out of all the riders. One of the most relaxed and constructive teams I've been amongst.
"I'd love to thank my family for all their love, support and encouragement that makes doing what I do so much easier! "To my coach Nick Owen for backing me and giving me the confidence and ability to get out there and rip it and have fun. To the CA coaches on this trip for putting in the finishing touches and ironing out the wrinkles to allow me to stand on the top step today. "The support around me is second to none and it feels as though I've had the easiest job out of them all!"
About
​The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world's best from 30 countries. Qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are on offer, with 16 of Australia's best set to vie against 200 of the world's best from 30 countries. More Photos ​Casey B. Gibson 
Photo Casey Gibson.
Victoria's Emily Petricola is celebrating after claiming both the world record and world title in the C4 individual pursuit at the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in the Netherlands.
In a stunning afternoon qualifying ride, Petricola broke her own world record with a time of 3mins 53.297secs for the three-kilometre event. In the final, Canada's Kelly Shaw was no match with Petricola overtaking her opponent before the finish line to take the gold.
"The world record was very unexpected and unplanned, so it is hard describe or articulate exactly how I felt," said Petricola, however the Victorian could detail the meticulous planning involved since winning silver at 2018 World Championships after also breaking the world record in qualifying.
"I spent a lot of time over the course of the last twelve months identifying exactly what went wrong last year and what I needed to change so I didn't have the same outcome this year," she said. "I've worked really hard with both Shane Kelly and Cameron Jennings on controlling my riding so I can go faster in a second pursuit ride than in qualifying. "This is difficult for me as I do tend to get a bit excited on race day, but I really did my best to follow the instructions being given to me throughout and, thankfully, today we executed two good, fast rides to get the rainbows." Relocating from Melbourne to the Australian Cycling Team headquarters in Adelaide earlier this year, Petricola was quick to thank coaches in both cities. "I have to thank first and foremost Cam Jennings for his coaching guidance and support. Shane Kelly who until my recent relocation spent a huge amount of time and energy teaching me so much; Harry Brennan for his expertise and support I in more areas than he is obliged to provide. "But to all CA staff that are here with us - they have been beyond incredible including Warren McDonald, Keren Faulkner, Eliza Smythe, Nick Formosa, Mikey Winter, Jade Lean, Nathan Jennings and Louise Marvin. "All my friends and family that have provided unending patience in their support of me doing this." Later in the sessions, Petricola backed up her gold medal performance with a bronze in the C4 scratch race. Team mate Meg Lemon took silver in the scratch race, while also taking bronze in the individual pursuit.
About
The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. Qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are on offer, with 16 of Australia's best set to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. More Photos © Casey B. Gibson 
Sydney's Gordon Allan celebrated his maiden World Championship medal with silver in the C2 1km time trial final at the 2019 UCI Para-cycling World Championships in the Netherlands on Friday.
In amazing scenes, Allan covered the four laps in just a tick under fifty kilometres per hour to set a new world record with a superb time of 1min 12.873secs. However in the very next ride, the final competitor to take to the track in Colombia’s Alejandro Perea just pipped the Australian's new mark by 0.005secs (1min12.838secs).
About
The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. Qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are on offer, with 16 of Australia's best set to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. More Photos © Casey B. Gibson ​ 
Formosa (L) chats to Greco (R). Photo © Casey Gibson.
Twenty-four hours after smashing the individual pursuit world record on her way to winning a maiden world title, debutant Paige Greco was at it again in the C3 500m Time Trial.
The Adelaide cyclist took her second world title in as many days in a blistering time of 39.442secs which smashed the previous mark by almost two seconds.
"I am very happy, two good rides, I still can’t believe it," said Greco, a former stand out on the athletics track who has been cycling for little more than twelve months, who has already turned her attention to improving her world's best times. "I’m looking forward to getting back into training and keep working at it.
"I’ve only been in the sport for a short time but this has given me the determination to keep training and working on the things I need to improve on. "I want to thank all the coaches for their ongoing support and my coach back home Loz couldn’t have done it without them."
About
The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. Qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are on offer, with 16 of Australia's best set to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. More Photos © Casey B. Gibson 
Photo © Casey Gibson
Sydney's Amanda Reid is celebrating after setting a new world record way to claiming the C2 time trial world title at the UCI Para-cycling Track Worlds in the Netherlands on Friday.
The second last rider to take to the Apeldoorn track to complete the two laps, Reid scorched the track in 45.564km/hour to clock the new mark of 39.505secs. The previous holder Alyda Norbruis (NED) was unable to better Reid's time in the final ride, giving Reid the gold.
"I still don’t think this is real," said Reid. "It took a while to sink in what I had actually done and the time I had just rode.
"Now that it has all sunk in, the feeling is unbelievable, a world title is amazing and the world record on top of that is like a dream come true for me. "I am truly fortunate to be surrounded by an amazing support system and without them this wouldn’t be possible."
About
The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. Qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are on offer, with 16 of Australia's best set to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. More Photos © Casey B. Gibson 
Photo © Casey Gibson
#Apeldoorn2019 Day 1 Recap
It was a triple treat for the Australian Cycling Team on the opening day of the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in the Netherlands with Paige Greco, Darren Hicks and David Nicholas claiming individual pursuit world titles. Debutant Paige Greco (SA) announced herself in the best way possible with a world record in qualifying and the world title in the C3 individual pursuit. Greco, who only began cycling two years ago, scorched the Apeldoorn track time of 4mins 0.206secs in qualifying to smash the existing world record by three seconds. The 22-year-old Adelaide cyclist proved it was no fluke as she posted 4mins 1.609secs in the final, even after overtaking her German opponent Denise Schindler. “I was really happy with the world record and then happy I could back it up in the final,” said Greco.
About
The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. Qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are on offer, with 16 of Australia's best set to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. More Photos © Casey B. Gibson 
Photo © Casey Gibson
#Apeldoorn2019 Day 1 Recap
It was a triple treat for the Australian Cycling Team on the opening day of the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in the Netherlands with Paige Greco, Darren Hicks and David Nicholas claiming individual pursuit world titles. Queensland’s David Nicholas celebrated a third straight world crown in C3 individual pursuit category. “It feels so awesome, I can't explain the feeling,” Nicholas said. “It is hard to believe, but yes it is my third pursuit world title in a row. It takes a lot of effort to stay on top, but it is all worth it to get the rainbow jersey!” Fastest qualifier in the afternoon session (3:30.775), Nicholas, 27, powered to a personal best 3mins 29.879secs on his ways to an eight-second victory in the final over Spain’s Eduardo Santas. “My strategy in the qualifying was to ride a time that would earn me a place the gold medal ride, but I was rolling fast, and I qualified first. In the final, I set myself a goal as my PB and achieved that.” The reigning Paralympic champion Nicholas was quick to praise his support team. “Thanks so much to Cycling Australia for all the help and support this year. Thanks to my coach Nick Formosa for everything he has done for me.”
About
The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. Qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are on offer, with 16 of Australia's best set to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. More Photos © Casey B. Gibson 
Photo Casey Gibson
#Apeldoorn2019 Day 1 Recap
It was a triple treat for the Australian Cycling Team on the opening day of the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in the Netherlands with Paige Greco, Darren Hicks and David Nicholas claiming individual pursuit world titles. Read More. “Right now I think I’m feeling every emotion possible,” said Darren Hicks after claiming his maiden world title. “I am excited & relieved, and in disbelief, I can't quite comprehend that I've finally got my first world championship and rainbow jersey, it's crazy!” Second fastest in C2 Individual Pursuit qualifying (3:42.709) behind Tristan Chernove (CAN) by less than half a second, before Hicks turned the tables on his Canadian opponent by three seconds in the final (3:45.390). “My plan for qualifying was the same thing we have been working on for months, that is until I came through on my second lap six-tenths up on my schedule,” said Hicks revealing it not all went according to his pre-race plan. “After that, it was 'hold on for dear life' and get through those last ten laps without blowing my left leg apart!! In the end, I think I was fortunate to scrape in as the second qualifier, but hey, I'll take some luck going my way for a change! “The final was a chance to make right what I did wrong in the qualifier, but unfortunately the tank was pretty empty from leaving it all out there on my first ride. So, in the end, I just settled to my schedule as best I could and tried to be as smooth as possible, the time is a little disappointing but in the end, the time doesn't matter in a medal ride off, just as long as you cross the line first.” The win comes after a tumultuous year for the 34-year-old Adelaide cyclist who in January had charges against him dropped for a freeway truck crash that killed two people in 2014, the same accident in which Hicks lost his right leg. “It has been a full on year, it was a long, agonising, very expensive road but it's behind me now, and I can finally focus fully on my racing,” Hicks said. “I just would like to say thanks to everyone that's helped me get to where I am today. I'm very grateful for all the opportunities I have been given and am glad I could bring home the chocolates for the first time on the big stage! “A thank you to my awesome wife who supports me galavanting around the world riding my bike, your unreal babe, and I can't wait to show you the new bling!!”
About
The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. Qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games are on offer, with 16 of Australia's best set to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. More Photos © Casey B. Gibson 
The Australian team has settled into a chilly Apeldoorn in the Netherlands ahead of the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships which run 14-17 March.
The Championships offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world's best from 30 countries.
While it snows outside, many members of the team including former world champions Alistair Donohoe (VIC) has opted for time in the sauna!
Former world champion Tandem pairing Jessica Gallagher (VIC) and Pilot Madison Janssen (VIC) fine-tuned their preparations for the Championships at the UCI World Cycling Centre in Switzerland after the pair received an invitation to attend the International Training Camp. Read more. In the men's Tandem events Brad Henderson (SA) will be piloted by Luke Zaccaria.
The team will also feature reigning world champion David Nicholas (QLD), plus former world champions Amanda Reid (NSW) and Simone Kennedy (NSW).
​Emily Petricola (VIC) returns to the team following her outstanding debut at the 2018 World Championships which saw her bring home dual medals and the individual pursuit world record. 2018 World Championship scratch race silver medalist Darren Hicks (SA) will look to continue his strong form with a focus towards the timed events, while Paige Greco (SA), Michael Shippley (QLD) and Daniel Van der Laan (NSW) will make their national team debut.  Australian Para-cycling duo Jessica Gallagher and Pilot Madison Janssen will fine-tune their final preparations for the 2019 Track World Championships at the UCI World Cycling Centre in Switzerland after the pair received an invitation to attend the International Training Camp. “It’s a wonderful opportunity for us to train in a new environment and experience the high-performance centre,” said Gallagher. “We are looking forward to training alongside and learning from the international riders and in particular tandems as we don’t get to experience this in our daily training environment in Australia. “The centre encompasses all the facilities an athlete needs which will allow us to focus on our final preparations and being based in the Swiss Alps, we think it will have some pretty nice views too!” The trip will provide another opportunity for Janssen to hone her skills in the specialised Pilot role and the Victorian is aiming to absorb as much as possible across the two-week camp. “I have been blessed to have some great coaches in the past such as Jason Niblett and Alex Bird and currently I have been under the watchful eye of one of the best sprint coaches Shane Kelly,” Janssen explained. “So for me, it will be taking in how others coach a tandem, and it will be nice to pick up some new things and bring them back home.” The duo won dual silver at the 2018 World Championships in Rio, and are chasing their own personal best in Apeldoorn while watching for the strong British outfit. “Coming off two second places at both the World Championships and the Commonwealth Games in 2018 we are looking to bridge the gap between us and Great Britain who took home all four gold in 2018 (in World Record times),” said Gallagher, “While also knowing there are some teams hot on our heels, so it’s going to be a tight competition! “Personal best performances will put us in strong contention.” Janssen is confident the team can deliver following a solid build up in Australia prior to the camp. “I think for us as a pairing; it is an excellent opportunity to nail everything that we have worked on over the past few months,” said Janssen. “And if we execute these things then I can see us achieving our goals, any time less than previous is one step closer to the top step.” Gallagher is also excited about a new opportunity to race in the Tandem team sprint which will be held for the first time at the 2019 World Championships. “While it is an exhibition event this year we are excited the UCI is acknowledging the incredible spectator events that tandem sprint racing is and giving us the opportunity to show it to the World in the hope that it may become a Paralympic event in the future. “ Gallagher and Janssen will depart Switzerland on March 10 to join the Australian team in Apeldoorn for the Championships which will be the first Paralympic qualification for the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games. “It’s exciting to think of the big 18 months ahead, Tokyo is firmly in sight, and with the World Champs being the first qualification opportunity, the whole Australian team is focused on putting their best foot forward,” Gallagher added. The 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships will be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March and offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. Website.   Cycling Australia is pleased to announce a 17-rider team for the 2019 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships to be held in the Netherlands from 14-17 March.
The Championships offers valuable qualification points towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, with the Australian team to vie against 200 of the world’s best from 30 countries. The selections feature a host of reigning and former world champions including David Nicholas (QLD), Amanda Reid (NSW), Simone Kennedy (NSW), Alistair Donohoe (VIC) and Kyle Bridgwood (QLD),plus the Tandem pairing of Jessica Gallagher (VIC) and Pilot Madison Janssen (VIC). Emily Petricola (VIC) returns to the team following her outstanding debut at the 2018 World Championships which saw her bring home dual medals and the individual pursuit world record. “The world record, it’s a lovely sort of thing that I'll be proud of when I look back on my career, but at this moment for me it’s just about trying to be better than what I’ve been before, to try to make sure that there’s no one better than me on that day,” said Petricola, who unofficially bettered her existing world mark on the way to the National crown last December. 2018 World Championship silver medalist in the scratch race Darren Hicks (SA) will look to continue his strong form with a focus towards the timed events. “It’s just exciting to go into 2019 with a lot ahead rather than just the time trial so I’m excited,” said Hicks, who went within two seconds of the 3-kilometre individual pursuit world record (set at altitude) at December’s Nationals. “The individual pursuit has never really been a focus, but I’d like to run a three 41 or a 42 just to reassure myself that it’s something I can do every time we get to any track in the world.” Newcomer Paige Greco (SA), who shone at December’s Track Nationals in Melbourne, will make her national team debut, as will Michael Shippley (QLD) and Daniel Van der Laan (NSW). “It’s (Australian team selection) has been a goal since I moved to Adelaide, so I am thrilled and excited,” said Greco, who announced herself on the para-cycling scene with dual national records and gold at the 2018 Track Nationals. “My goal at worlds is a PB (personal best time), but I’ve got some things I need to work on. “I’m also really looking forward to the team environment as it will be excellent to get some advice from the more experienced riders and see how they handle the pressure.” In the men's Tandem events Brad Henderson (SA) is confirmed, with his Pilot to be named at a later date. The Australian Cycling Team will head to Brisbane in late January for a team training camp and UCI Category 2 event before heading to the Netherlands in late March. The Team celebrated ten medals at the 2018 UCI Para-cycling Track World Championships in Rio, the fourth most by any nation behind Great Britain, Netherlands and China. ATHLETE (STATE) CLASSIFICATION
 Nicholas winning the 2018 World Title - Photo © Casey Gibson Australia’s 2019 summer of track cycling begins this week at DISC Velodrome in Melbourne with the two-day 2019 Para-cycling National Championships. Australian Cycling Team members will be in action including reigning Paralympic and world champion David Nicholas (QLD) and dual World Championship medallist Emily Petricola (VIC). Nicholas delivered yet again in 2018 as he surged to defend his C3 individual pursuit world title in March, while also collecting a podium during the Road World Cup series and four National crowns on the road and track. “It has been a great season, I kept it pretty low key after Track Worlds as I came down with bug away that put me out of action for a while anyway, but it was good to be able to build up to Road Worlds. Nicholas will be aiming for his eighth consecutive pursuit crown and sixth straight win in the time trial, with the Queenslander’s sights also firmly set on March’s World Championships. “My goals are obviously to defend my two nationals titles, but also to set a time in the kilo and pursuit to see where I am at in my preparations for the World Championships.”  Petricola in action during the 2018 World Title - Photo © Casey Gibson Petricola will be looking to defend her C4 national pursuit crown, an event in which she shocked the para-cycling world in 2018 after breaking the world record in qualifying at the World Championships in March.
“When I look back at 2018 I'm pretty shocked at what a huge year it has been, in particular thinking back to the world champs and the results there, it all seems a bit surreal,” said Petricola, who claimed World Championship silver in both the pursuit and time trial. While only having begun cycling a couple of years ago, Petricola was quickly selected to the Australian Cycling Team and has committed to the program by moving back to Melbourne after three years working in the United Arab Emirates. “I have gone from training on my own all the time in the middle of the desert on a trainer most of the time, to be a part of the bigger machine of Cycling Australia and more locally, the VIS,” added Petricola, who will race both the time trial and pursuit this week on her home track at DISC before tackling FedUni RoadNats in January. “ "With so much change, I've certainly had to be a bit more resilient and persevere as I reestablish my life in Australia. But now that things are settling down a bit, I'm starting to find my rhythm and looking forward to getting some positive results over the coming months.” Former world champions Alistair Donohoe (VIC), Kyle Bridgwood (QLD), Amanda Reid (NSW), Simone Kennedy (NSW), plus Jessica Gallagher (VIC) who will be piloted by Madison Janssen (VIC) in the Tandem events, will be in action. The Para-cycling National Championships will be held in conjunction with the 2019 Omnium Championships. #ParaTrackNats Quick Guide
 "With the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games less than 600 days away, Cycling Australia (CA) continues its Australian Cycling Team program support for Track, Para-cycling, BMX and Road athletes. The Podium, Podium Ready and Podium Potential programs encompass 60 athletes (male and female) within the following disciplines: 20 Track, 12 Road, 6 BMX (Supercross and Freestyle), 22 Para-cycling. “Our ‘What will it take to win’ performance plan creates a clear athlete pathway that is designed to maximise Australia's chances of Podium performances at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games, and at World Championships and Commonwealth Games ” said Simon Jones, Cycling Australia’s Performance Director and key driver of the Australian Cycling Team strategy. Over the past twelve months, Australia celebrated half a dozen world titles and dozens of medals in Olympic and Paralympic events across the Track, Road, BMX and Para-cycling (Road and Track) disciplines. In 2018, new athletes were welcomed into the program including dual para road world champion Emilie Miller, road world championship representatives Lucy Kennedy and Jack Haig, plus track athletes Macey Stewart and Kristina Clonan. Road cyclists Luke Durbridge, Callum Scotson and Rachel Neylan exited the program. “The Australian Cycling Team’s athlete classification system is demonstrating its robustness in identifying and supporting the right blend of athletes with the skill, experience, capability and potential to be the world’s best,” Jones added. “We have also committed significant resources to the athlete pathway, which is vital to our future success. “In November we saw that commitment come to life with the commencement of the Podium Potential Track Academy which features 13 Endurance and Sprint athletes who have begun training in close proximity to the Australian Cycling Team in Adelaide. “The Academy will provide these young riders with both a cycling and personal development experience that’s targeting the 2024 Olympic cycle.   Carol Cooke with outgoing Para Technical Director Peter Day Australia is celebrating a successful end to the UCI Para-cycling Road World Cup season with five gold and a total of fourteen medals at the third and final round in Canada. In the season ending honours, Carol Cooke (WT2) and Stuart Tripp (MH5) were crowned overall UCI Para-cycling Road World Cup champions. Cooke never missed the podium in 2018, claiming three victories, two seconds and one third on the season to edge close rival Jill Walsh on a count back. Tripp claimed three wins from four races, including two gold in the final round, to claim the leader’s jersey. In other final season results, Alistair Donohoe (MC5) two silvers in the final round moved him to third overall on the Series, while Meg Lemon (WC4) also finished third after two podiums to end the year, just ahead of Hannah MacDougall (WC4) in fourth. Kyle Bridgwood (MC4) finished fourth overall after contesting just two of the three rounds, while Darren Hicks (MC2) was eighth after winning his only two races of the season in round one. The results capped off a strong season for the Australian Cycling Team which netted twelve medals, including three rainbow jerseys, at the 2018 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships in Maniago, Italy earlier this month. Round 3 Summary of Results
 Stuart Tripp celebrates his World Cup season victory!  Peter celebrates with Emilie Miller at the 2018 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships. Cycling Australia would like to thank Peter Day, who after nine years of leading the Australian Cycling Team Para-cycling program, will step down from the role at the end of September. Peter’s remarkable cycling coaching career has spanned across three decades, with his first role coming as the Head Coach of the inaugural QAS Cycling Program in 1991. “As QAS coach, I had the privilege of working with several Para-cyclists, most notably Chris Scott who was a multiple Paralympic and world champion. "As I really enjoyed the coaching experience and personal relationship developed with Chris, I felt I could contribute to and achieve the overall goals and objectives of the program as required by Cycling Australia and the Australian Paralympic Committee.” Commencing with the Cycling Australia High Performance Network in 2009, Peter guided the program through two Paralympic Games campaigns which netted six gold medals in London 2012 and three at Rio 2016 for a total haul of 27 medals. During his management, the team astoundingly claimed more than 30 world titles across both the UCI Para-cycling Road and Track World Championships. “My most fulfilling time had to be the 2012 London Paralympics,. Not only because of the outstanding results, but I think it was another massive step for the profile of Para-cycling and the athletes who truly deserve the recognition. “My unforgettable moment came there when I watched this young man David Nicholas, go from being absolutely devastated with his result in the IP on the track, to win gold in the TT on the road and then go on to claim the IP gold at the 2016 Rio Games.”  Rio 2016 Paralympic Games with Alexandra Lisney, Sue Powell & Michael Winter. Photo APC. Peter’s results were recognised off the road and track, notably with many accolades highlighted by the APC and CA Coach of the Year awards, but he was quick to acknowledge the athletes’ role. “Something that I have always been very conscious of is that great athletes make coaches look good. I was very extremely lucky to work with some exceptionally talented cyclists in my early coaching years before and also as the inaugural QAS Coach including Kerrie Meares, Scott McGrory and Robbie McEwen. “So it is fitting to come out the other side of my coaching career recognising some of our current great Para-cycling champions, and again just to name a few, Carol Cooke, David Nicholas and Alistair Donohoe who have continued to make me look good with their achievements.” Peter also spent many years championing the cause of Para-cycling away from the finish lines and podiums via the UCI Para-cycling Commission. “Of great personal satisfaction and this is the bigger picture but my involvement with the UCI which gave me the voice and vehicle to address the international factoring and minus 1 rule. This rule change effectively ended the discrimination against the more disabled who don’t attract the same size fields, especially in the women’s classifications.”  Peter with some of Australia's best after being named Coach of the year in 2016. While his legacy will be felt around the sport and the Australian Cycling Team for years to come, the sport has also left a lasting impression on Peter. “Generally I will take away the highest respect and admiration for the Para-cyclists who welcomed my support as many needed to demonstrate abilities to overcome adversity and challenges almost on a daily basis, that most able-bodied cyclists couldn’t begin to consider. “I take away a great deal of personal pride in knowing I did the best I possibly could with the resources available and also great satisfaction realising the developed lifelong friendships with colleagues and athletes. “I am proud of the people I worked with and am extremely confident that the greatly enhanced operating structure that is currently in place will serve to progress the Para-cycling program through to the Tokyo Paralympics.” Peter paid tribute to his strong support network across Australia. “Of course as with everything in life many people influence you, assist you and like how a great athlete makes you look good, so does a great support team. “In the beginning, I was entirely at sea with what was effectively a two-man show, Tom Skulander and I appreciate his guidance. To the Golden Rainbow, Murray Lydeamore volunteering his services as Team Manager which saw us do every World Track and Road Championship 2010 – 2016 and two Paralympics. “Throughout the years I enjoyed support from SIS/SAS coaches, and I particularly enjoyed an excellent working relationship with Kipp Kaufmann (Cycling Victoria/Australia), and I must recognise him for his efforts to take Para-cycling competition into environments of higher profile and recognition. “To the Australian Paralympic Committee and special thanks to Kate McLoughlin, a big thank you to Paul Brosnan for his support and direction in his role of General Manager Australian Cycling Team, and to Kevin Tabotta’s and the progress that was made with Para-cycling integration within the High Performance program. “I must recognise the long-term commitment from Keren Faulkner, Nick Formosa, Michael Winter, Eliza Smyth, Berthy May and Dan Brent as integral to our program and more recently Cameron Jennings, Nick Owen and excellent administration support from Nathan Jennings. “I also enjoyed this past year working with Simon Jones as Performance Director; I appreciated Simon allowing me the autonomy to get on with delivering stated goals and objectives as we build the required momentum towards medal-winning performances Tokyo 2020.”  Peter coaching Sue Powell at the World Championships. And what is next for Peter Day? “I suppose all the things people say they will do when they retire are going around in my head. “I know I will miss the athlete interaction and my work colleagues and friends who have been so incredibly supportive of me during both the good and bad times. “But I think I will just take a step back, not be email driven, slaved to by the phone and not wondering what disaster will hit the KPI’s for that year. “And just annoy my wife a bit more than I currently do.” The 2018 UCI Para World Cup in Canada will be Peter's final event in the role. Details of the new appointments to the Cycling Australia program will be made in the coming week.  Peter (right) with Stuart Tripp at the Rio Paralympic Games. Photo APC.
The Australian Cycling Team collected twelve medals, including three rainbow jerseys, at the 2018 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships in Maniago, Italy.
Bathurst’s Emilie Miller (H1 Handcycle) won time trial and road race gold, while Melbourne’s Alistair Donohoe (C5) claimed his third career road world title. The Victorian trio of Carol Cooke (T2 - Tricycle) and Hannah Macdougall (C4) won dual silver in the road race and time trial, as did debutant Kaitlyn Schurmann (C1). Kyle Bridgwood and Meg Lemon won bronze in the C4 time trial finals, with Darren Hicks claiming bronze in the C2 road race. 
Seven-time world champion Cooke was content with her dual silver medal-winning performance.
“I came into these World Championships hoping to bring home the world champion stripes, and I was in the best shape of my life,” said Cooke, who finished behind the USA’s Jill Walsh in both races. “I had my race plans in place and rode them perfectly, gave everything that I had. Unfortunately for me someone else, Jill was faster on both days. “But I am very proud to have done my best, and for me that is the success, doing my best in any race. Two silver medals aren't too shabby! I am very happy to have been on the podium.” A leader on and off the bike, Cooke, 56, recognised the growth and improving quality Tricycle racing, while also revealing the results of her teammates inspire her. “The Trike class is growing and becoming stronger, and I am happy to be part of that growth. “It has just made me hungrier for the next racing against Jill which will happen in a couple of weeks away in Canada at the last World Cup. “It was also great to see my teammates do so well, Kaitlyn Schurmann in her first ever World Championship taking two silver and Emilie Miller winning two gold! Watching them ride is so inspiring.” Cooke also paid tribute to retiring Cycling Australia’s Technical Director of Para-cycling Peter Day. “We have an amazing team which has been put together by Peter over the last ten years, and it is with a heavy heart that we will be saying goodbye to his leadership in September. However, we all wish him the best in his retirement, and I am sure that his wife Cheryl will be more than happy to have him at home!” Like Cooke, Macdougall was ecstatic with her dual podium appearance in the road race and time trial. "I am feeling absolutely awesome, am super stoked to pick up two silvers, and it was even more special to share the time trial podium with my Aussie teammate Meg," said Macdougall. "The time trial was one of the most interesting and scenic courses we have had - not that I got to take a lot of it in - I raced and paced it well, crossing the line knowing I had given it everything I had. "I am super proud of the race and of my performance, 200% improvement on my total career medals. "But results like that aren’t an individual effort and I am so grateful to our support team." Official results: visit the UCI website. 2018 Australian Cycling Team - UCI Para Road World Championships Summary
The Australian Cycling Team collected twelve medals, including three rainbow jerseys, at the 2018 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships in Maniago, Italy. Bathurst’s Emilie Miller (H1 Handcycle) won time trial and road race gold, while Melbourne’s Alistair Donohoe (C5) claimed his third career road world title. The Victorian trio of Carol Cooke (T2 - Tricycle) and Hannah Macdougall (C4) won dual silver in the road race and time trial, as did debutant Kaitlyn Schurmann (C1). Kyle Bridgwood and Meg Lemon won bronze in the C4 time trial finals, with Darren Hicks claiming bronze in the C2 road race.  For Donohoe, 23, a stunning solo victory in the C5 road race gave him his third road rainbow jersey from the last four World Championships. The 2014 and 2015 road world champion was part of a three-rider breakaway for most of the race before his attack on the pair inside the final few kilometres went unanswered. “It was super aggressive in the first two laps, then on the last lap I hit the pair before the fast run into town, and from there it was just head down to the finish, and I managed to hold them off,” said Donohoe, who won by twenty seconds. “Winning solo is always a rarity especially being someone who prefers the sprints, and my first victory since Rio. After having some health and injury problems last season, it was just so, so, so good to get back on top. “And in my favourite event, this is a fantastic win. In a typically Australian way, I’m stoked.” Official results: visit the UCI website.
2018 Australian Cycling Team - UCI Para Road World Championships Summary
 The Australian Cycling Team collected twelve medals, including three rainbow jerseys, at the 2018 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships in Maniago, Italy. Bathurst’s Emilie Miller (H1 Handcycle) won time trial and road race gold, while Melbourne’s Alistair Donohoe (C5) claimed his third career road world title - read more. The Victorian trio of Carol Cooke (T2 - Tricycle) and Hannah Macdougall (C4) won dual silver in the road race and time trial, as did debutant Kaitlyn Schurmann (C1). Kyle Bridgwood and Meg Lemon won bronze in the C4 time trial finals, with Darren Hicks claiming bronze in the C2 road race. Miller, 23, is still coming to terms with her dual gold medal performance. “I don’t think it has sunk in yet, it’s a humbling experience,” said Miller, “It felt amazing to pull on the rainbow jersey, and I was thrilled to see the hard training paying off. “I felt it was my best race on an international stage so far. I felt I rode a very good race technically by choosing good lines, and I surprised myself with how strong I was on the climbs and had a strong, fast finish to the race.” While the only rider in her category at the World Championships, Millar praised Cycling Australia for allowing the opportunity to represent her country on the international stage. “I am very proud to be the only woman in my class at this World Championships. Other countries have riders in this class, and they haven’t brought them to compete, so I’m grateful for the support that Cycling Australia has given me to be able to represent my country.” Official results: visit the UCI website.
2018 Australian Cycling Team - UCI Para Road World Championships Summary
Darren Hicks in 2017 - Photo Boogs McFadden
The Australian Cycling Team is locked and loaded ahead of the 2018 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships which begin Thursday 2 August in Maniago, Italy.
The team is littered with some of the biggest names in para-cycling, including seven-time and dual reigning world champion Carol Cooke, Paralympic gold medallist David Nicholas, former world champion Kyle Bridgwood and Alistair Donohoe. And while it is easy to focus on these names, there have been two riders quietly making names for themselves in households across the country. South Australian duo Darren Hicks and Meg Lemon announced themselves at the 2017 UCI Para-cycling Road World Championships when on their debut, they clinched dual silver and dual bronze respectively. In 2018, they the pair head into the World Championships in form and full of confidence after winning gold at May’s opening round of the UCI Para Road World Cup in Belgium. “We’ve put in a lot of hard work since Belgium working on both skills and fitness in preparation for these World Champs,” said Lemon, who will contest the women’s C4 road race and time trial from Friday. “Our coach believes he’s worked as harder than ever, so I’m hoping the hard work will pay off here.” “I would love to podium again this year at Worlds and the World Cup hoping my form and skills I have worked in will help to improve and move up the step to perhaps silver or gold in the race,” added Lemon. “You never know what will happen race day and how everyone else performs, but it’s all about experience and working towards the next few years and qualifying and hopefully peaking at Tokyo.” However, while she is clearly focussed on her own race and path to Tokyo, Lemon was quick to point out to others what she believes her teammates are capable of achieving this weekend. “I’m also so excited to see what my teammates can do. I have a feeling Darren might beat us to the rainbow stripes this year,” Lemon remarked. 
Meg Lemon in 2017 - Photo Boogs McFadden
For Darren Hicks who will race the men’s C2 road race and time trial, his 2018 season has been almost flawless with dual national titles in January, followed by World Cup gold in May.
“It's been a dream start to the road season, most of my training is in preparation for road competition, so it was great to see all of that pay off in Belgium,” said Hicks, who despite the early season successes, has continued to strive for the marginal gains. “As far as performance goes my numbers were good in Ostend, but we have worked on a few things since coming home and made some nice gains in a couple of areas. “After a surprising set of results last year, going backwards and staying stagnant aren't options so that only leaves climbing one step higher on the podium! “So quite simply, winning is my one and only goal.” More on the Championships The Championships will be live streamed via the official Facebook page, with more event information via the official website. For official start lists and results, visit the UCI website. 2018 Australian Cycling Team - UCI Para Road World Championships
Alistair celebrates his 2015 world title.
The Australian Cycling Team has arrived in Italy ahead of the 2018 UCI Para Road World Championships to be held from 2-5 August.
The team is together for the first time since May’s opening round of the Para Road World Cup in Belgium where the team grabbed 12 medals, including gold to Carol Cooke, Darren Hicks, Stuart Tripp, Meg Lemon and Kyle Bridgwood. Carol Cooke added to the tally gold and silver at the second round in the Netherlands. Following the World Cup where he grabbed bronze, dual road world champion Alistair Donohoe opted to spend his final few weeks of preparation in his bedroom. But while it might sound like he was skipping training to catch up on his TV shows, it was all in the name of sport performance. “For the past three weeks, I’ve had the altitude tent set up in my bedroom,” explained Donohoe, 23, “It’s actually super boring as I had to lock myself in my room for around 14 hours a day (including sleep) and pretend like I was the bubble boy. I became good friends with Netflix! “I did it not because I’m going to go racing at altitude, but for the physiological benefits of increasing (or trying to) the number of red blood cells in my body. “The hardest part is the added fatigue effects it has on your body and trying to train at 100% while in the tent can be pretty difficult, you have a few more off days than usual, and your sleep/recovery isn't quite as good, so it's a bit of a balancing act.”
Donohoe’s balancing act has not been confined to the four walls of a hyperbaric chamber, with his season interspersed with Australian team commitments including the Track World Championships, and his debut season with Conti team Mobius BridgeLane.
“The new team Mobius BridgeLane has been awesome so far, a great group of guys and an incredible support network. I'm really enjoying my time with them and every race we enter,” said Donohoe, who raced his debut season in the USA just after winning silver at the UCI Track World Championships in Rio. “Racing in the USA at the beginning of the year was a great experience too, having raced in Europe and Asia it was nice to get a taste of what the US had to offer, and it was some pretty high-class racing. “It was tough coming straight off Track World Championships and going into that racing, but it definitely helped my bronze medal performance at the Belgium World Cup in May.”
The 2014 and 2015 road world champion is chasing rainbows next week in Italy and will line up in the road race and time trial from August 2.
“Of course, the goal is to bring home some stripes,” he said. “But it is always hard to know how you're feeling without having any preparation races! “I've been doing a lot of time trial training the past few weeks and should have faith in the numbers I’m seeing and that they indicate I’m moving pretty well. “The road race is, of course, my bread and butter event, and I would love more than anything to take that one out and stand on the top step, so we'll see how that goes!” So after weeks in the bubble, and 20+ hours on the plane, what will Donohoe’s first move be when he arrives in team camp? “My first few days will mostly involve recovering from the jet lag as fast as possible and settling into the new time zone, then will be tapering into the racing. “I'll also be trying to acclimatise to the hot weather over there, so I will be utilising a sauna for the first few days to do heat acclimatisation sessions.” 2018 Australian Cycling Team - UCI Para Road World Championships
In a repeat of May's opening round of the UCI Para Road World Cup, Carol Cooke claimed gold and silver at round two in the Netherlands.
Cooke prevailed in the time trial by more than thirty seconds over of Jill Walsh (USA), before her US rival turned the tables to win the road race. The pair are now tied on the UCI Rankings. "I'm very happy with how I rode both races at this second World Cup," said Cooke, who revealed she is starting to reap the benefits of long hours in the saddle in a new time trial racing position. "For the first time I felt really comfortable in that position and it is obviously helping as I won by a fairly good margin. "I still have some work to do on my road race, however, the dynamics of the race were different because we were racing alongside the men. So that will change at the World Championships when we are riding our own race." Cooke will now head to the Australian Institute of Sport European Training Centre (ETC) in Italy for targeted individual sessions, before the dual reigning and seven-time world champion joins the entire Australian team ahead of the Para Road World Championships which begin August 2. "I'm looking forward to training at the ETC, it will help me acclimatise to the heat in Italy and help me focus solely on what I am here to do," Cooke added. "But I think one of the most important things is that I will be doing some specific sprint training in the next four weeks. My last two World Cup Road Races have come down to the final sprint and as history has shown Jill has got me on both of those." "I'm looking forward to Worlds and looking forward to being back with the team. Obviously, my goal is to hold on to both my World Championship jerseys and I am feeling very fit and confident that I can do it." Read more about Carol here. 
Dual reigning world champion Carol Cooke will warm up for her title defence at the second round of the UCI Para World Cup in the Netherlands this weekend.
Cooke, who claimed gold and silver at the first round of the World Cup in Belgium in May, will race the TT on Friday and the Road Race on Saturday (6pm/530pm AEST). “I’m looking forward to racing here, I had great races here last year, winning both the Road Race and TT, so I am hoping to do the same thing again this year,” said Cooke, who will line up in a small, but strong field, which includes Jill Walsh (USA) and Marie-Eve Croteau (CAN). “At this point, I am probably at the fittest level I have ever been (especially in the gym) and I’m feeling good leading into these races next week.” It has been a successful start to the 2018 season, and the qualification process towards the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, for the for the Australian Para-cycling Team with twelve medals, including six gold at May’s World Cup. Following the Championships, Cooke will head to the Australian Institute of Sport base in Italy before later joining the entire Australian team ahead of the Para Road World Championships which begin August 2. Follow Carol at the UCI Para World Cup in the Netherlands via the official website or via the UCI.  Cycling Australia is pleased to announce selections to the Australian Cycling Team for the 2018 UCI Para Road World Championships which will be held in Italy from 2-5 August 2018.
2018 Australian Cycling Team - UCI Para Road World Championships
Name (State), Classification BM: Vision impaired; H: Handcycle, T: Tricycle Headlining the World Championship team selections is seven-time and dual reigning world champion Carol Cooke who claimed World Cup gold and silver at the first round of the 2018 UCI Para Road World Cup in Belgium in May. It was a successful start to the 2018 season, and the qualification process towards the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games, for the Australian Cycling Team as it netted twelve medals, including six gold at May’s World Cup. Dual 2017 World Championship silver medallist Darren Hicks powered to dual gold, while Stuart Tripp collected gold and silver. The pair now boast the 2018 World Cup leader’s jersey in their respective classifications. 2015 time trial world champion Kyle Bridgwood and dual 2017 World Championship bronze medallist Meg Lemon also found the top step of the World Cup podium. Hannah Macdougall collected two bronze, while debutants Stuart Jones and Kaitlyn Schurmann have been rewarded with their maiden World Championship team selection following their podium appearances. 2016 Paralympic gold medallist David Nicholas and dual road world champion Alistair Donohoe add depth and experience to the team. Grant Allan, Grant Nickel and Emilie Miller round out the Handcycle selections, with the Tandem pairing of Kieran Murphy and Lachlan Glasspool back for their second World Championships following a top ten on debut in 2017. More on Para-cycling - UCI website |
Categories
All
Archives
April 2019
|
RSS Feed
FOLLOW |
|
© 2018 Cycling Australia, All rights reserved.