Fulton’s first international ride
It is Shaane Fulton’s dream to one day represent New Zealand at either the Olympic Games or Commonwealth Games.
So it is fair to say the 16-year-old is pretty excited about the prospect of making her international cycling debut at the Oceania Track Championships in Melbourne next month alongside a bunch of riders who have triumphed on those pinnacle stages.
‘‘I’ve been waiting for this day for so long and to have it come true is awesome,’’ the Waimea College student said.
’’I’ve been watching so many people go through to the Oceania Track Championships as their first big step to wherever they are now and it’s always been a big goal and it’s there right in front of me now.’’
Fulton, who is the daughter of well-known local cyclists Dean and Karen Fulton, made the decision early in her career to focus her attention on the track.
‘‘Mum has always been on the road and that’s been her thing and dad does everything so I think I’m the first one in the family to take up a big passion for it.
‘‘I love everything about cycling but track is where my heart is. I love all the adrenaline, all the fun, all the tactics, and even just riding the track and the simple things like the bike and the pyschological stuff that goes on with the competitors.
‘‘On the road when you’re relaxed you have a lot more time,where on the track you have to think so fast, and that’s one of the things I like the most about it.’’
Fulton used to train regularly with her mother but said that is restricted to the gym now that their targets have differed. However, Karen is always the first person she turns to for advice.
‘‘It’s always good debriefing training with mum especially because we connect so well. We understand each other’s goals where some people don’t understand.
‘‘She’s definitely a big role model of mine.’’
Fulton is still awaiting confirmation as to which disciplines she will compete in but they will be under-19 sprint events. The Oceania Track Championships begins at the DISC Arena on December 7.