Cyclist rides to podium finish

A KEEN bike rider since he was a child, Ben Oman hit a major cycling milestone earlier this month in Buninyong.

Oman has overcome adversity with his health to see podium success in the recent Federation University Road National Championships.

The para-athlete won silver in the transplant category of both the road race and time trial earlier in the month, having returned to the sport following kidney disease, six months of dialysis, and a transplant.

“When I heard that the RoadNats were going to start a TX category a few years ago I started to train more seriously and became really dedicated to cycling,” he said.

“Competing at a national level is something I never thought was possible when I was lying in a hospital bed waiting for a transplant and I’m so proud of everything I have been able to achieve.

“I’m so glad AusCycling has given us the opportunity to compete and showcase the importance of organ donation on a national stage.”

AusCycling executive general manager, Kipp Kaufmann said the transplant para cycling category is an exciting one that’s growing in participation.

“It’s been amazing to see transplant recipients from all around Australia competing at these national championships,” he said.

“Since its inception, the transplant category at the AusCycling Road National Championships has gone from strength to strength, with a record number of entrants this year.

“Each of these riders has a powerful story about receiving a life-saving organ transplant and going on to enjoy a full and rich life.

“That includes experiencing the joy and freedom of riding a bike at the highest level.”

Heart, liver, kidney, and bone marrow transplant recipients competed at the 2024 RoadNats.