Local talent heads to world stage

THE Ballarat Sebastopol Cycling Club name will make its way to France from next week, with two BMX riders ready to burst from the gate at the 2022 UCI BMX World Championships in Nantes.

Josh Jolly will compete in the 16-year-old boys, and 15-to-16-year-old boys cruiser classes, while Simon Cooper is heading to the Worlds for the first time in the 40 to 44-year-old men’s cruiser category.

Jolly will race against almost 140 young riders, while Cooper is up against 70.

“The world titles are the biggest races of the year that you could ride in, with 3000 riders competing over five days, and 120 Australian riders over there, so we’re pretty lucky to be in amongst that group of people,” Cooper said.

“I’ve only been riding for a couple of years, so I’m chuffed to get the chance. I’ve been working reasonably hard to get fit, learn more skills, and get into it.

“I took up BMX with my son. It’s been a mission, from falling off in my first night of training and breaking my ribs, to getting here within two years.”

Jolly has been riding for 14 years, is the current National Champion in both his categories, and he hopes to make the final in both classes in Nantes.

“My top goal is to win both finals and become world champ in both ages. Then, my goal is to be selected for the Olympics in 2028,” he said.

“We haven’t seen the world competition for a few years, but I think there’s a pretty good chance that I can achieve my goals.”

Both riders said are grateful to BSCC BMX for running fundraising days and generating sponsorship to help them get to France.

The purpose-built Nantes track is new, with full grandstands, and was recently used for the French Championships.

“It’s going to be pretty awesome racing in front of a big crowd,” Cooper said.