Brave Joiner happy to be joining the Revolution

LAST year’s Commonwealth Games taught us many things, not least that Glasgow simply adores its sporting heroes.

On Saturday, some of the world’s best cyclists return to the city, ready again to wow what is sure to be an appreciative and raucous crowd at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome.

Double Olympic champion Jason Kenny, Paralympic legend Dame Sarah Storey and Commonwealth gold medallist Lizzie Armitstead head the talented field as the always-exciting Revolution Series comes north, with Callum Skinner and Charline Joiner leading the home hopes.

For Joiner, who helped Scottish team-mate Katie Archibald to a bronze medal in the points race at the Commonwealths, the competition represents another stage on what has been a remarkable comeback.

This time last year, she was just beginning her recuperation from a crash while training in Spain that had left her with three fractures to her vertebrae. That she recovered sufficiently to compete in Glasgow was testament to both her fortitude and ability.

Now, however, she is only looking forward. And while the road is where the 26-year-old sees her immediate future, mixing it on the track is of great benefit, too.

‘I’m not doing track training at the moment — I’m doing my road work,’ said Joiner, who will be taking part in the points race, the scratch race and the elimination.

‘Speed comes naturally and I enjoy the track. Having the opportunity to do the Revolution Series once a month is perfect for me to keep on top of my speed.

‘There’s no better way of doing it than racing with the best.

‘The crowds are always amazing and it’s one of the best track events you could do outwith the World Cup.

‘It will be great being back on that track in front of what is sure to be close to a sell-out crowd. I’m really excited about it — especially as it’s in Scotland.

‘I’m sure the crowd will get behind me — they are so passionate. It’s brilliant.’

Joiner’s enthusiasm is sincere, the accident last year serving as a reminder of how lucky she is to have a career she loves and has a talent for.

‘When I found I’d injured my back, I was thankful it wasn’t any worse — that I wasn’t paralysed,’ added the Delhi 2010 silver medallist.

‘I got back to normality, then I got back on the bike and targeted the Commonwealth Games. I aimed for a medal but there was no more I could really do. But it was great to help Katie and inspire some people.

‘It was tough but I needed to be positive. I was grateful for everything. It was a tough six months. But since October, it has been pretty much head down and back to work.’

CHARLINE JOINER will be racing at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome in Glasgow in the fourth round of the Revolution Series on January 31. Tickets are available to buy at cyclingrevolution.com or by calling 0844 854 2016.