Graves on track for World Masters
One successful competition door has closed and another one is about to open for Toowoomba cyclist Nathan Graves.
Graves is preparing to test himself at a new level when he contests next month’s 2017 World Masters Track Cycling Championships.
The championships will be held in Los Angeles from October 8 to 15.
They are open to men and women 35 years and older and consist of three sprint and four endurance events.
Thirty-six-year-old Graves will line up in three events at his World Masters debut.
He will compete in the sprint (750 metres), 1km time trial and team sprint.
Graves — a five-time Australian championships competitor — bowed out of elite-level cycling following the national titles at the Anna Meares Velodrome in Brisbane earlier this year.
His Masters’ preparation has taken on a different look from the intensity of elite training but he is confident of carrying some residual form into his LA challenge.
“Along with the sprint and time trial I’m doing the team sprint for the first time which I’m pretty excited about,” Graves said.
“Cycling is such an individual sport. I’m looking forward to soaking up some of the camaraderie riding with mates.
“My preparation has been pretty good.
“It’s a whole new mindset compared to elite competition.
“The change needs to be fun and has to fit in with family, lifestyle and my studies.
“I’ve never been one to focus on results. As long as I perform like I want to, the rest will look after itself.
“If I can, I’m confident I can be around the medals.”
❝ It’s a whole new mindset compared to elite competition.
— Nathan Graves