National success for up and coming junior cyclist

Amelia Sykes. Photo: Facebook
Amelia Sykes. Photo: Facebook
Accomplished junior Canterbury cyclist Amelia Sykes distinguished herself at two national competitions this month, buoyed by the support of a local trust.

The Sumner athlete won the under-17 girls time trial at the Age Group National Road Cycling Championships at Waipukurau in July.

It was her first national road cycling title and a welcome addition to her collection of national track titles.

Amelia also finished 10th in the under-17 road race.

Earlier in July, she competed in the National Track Cycling Series at Avantimore in Cambridge.

She was the overall leader in the B grade women (all ages) with wins in the points race, elimination, tempo and madison finals

The former ice speed skater, who recently turned 16, said the competition had been invaluable.

“The series has been massive,” the year 11 Avonside Girls’ High School student said.

“I have learned new things, getting back into track again and building my base, and it was a nice atmosphere and community there.”

Amelia was supported by a grant from the Sumner Ferrymead Foundation.

Amelia Sykes broke the 2000m individual pursuit record at the national age-group track...
Amelia Sykes broke the 2000m individual pursuit record at the national age-group track championships in Invercargill. Photo: Supplied