Locals shine at track titles

The Mount Gambier Cycling Club was proudly represented at the 2025 SA State Track Titles held at the Adelaide Superdrome over the weekend, with nine riders delivering outstanding performances.

The event showcased not only seasoned competitors but also the incredible potential of newcomers, highlighting the club’s growing talent pool.

Miles Kroon, having joined the club just eight weeks ago, made an impressive debut in his first-ever competition on the boards.

Competing in the Under 15 division, Miles narrowly missed the podium in the 500m Time Trial, finishing just two seconds off the gold medal pace—a remarkable achievement for a newcomer.

Racing alongside Miles in the Under 15 category, Molly Opperman (pictured left centre with her gold medal) solidified her status as a top competitor, clinching podium finishes in every event.

Her standout performance was a gold medal in the sprint, an event in which she claimed a national bronze earlier this year.

In the Under 17 division, first-year rider Xavier Farmilo proved his strength in the Team Pursuit, contributing to a bronze medal win in a highly competitive field.

Amali Judd, a recent addition to the club, made her mark in the Under 19 division, competing with confidence alongside teammates Ethan McKenny and Jesse Tull.

Ethan showcased his versatility, taking home two medals across multiple events, while Jesse impressed with a silver medal in the sprint. Amali took home a gold in the Team Sprint event.

The club’s elite riders – Niel Van Niekerk, Kai Arbery and Sarah Dally – demonstrated why they are considered among the best in the state.

Niel (pictured above right with gold medal) excelled in the 1km Time Trial, earning a well-deserved gold medal and further cementing his reputation as a top-tier competitor.

The weekend’s results reflect the hard work and dedication of both the riders and their support teams.

With promising newcomers like Miles and Amali, and the consistent excellence of competitors like Molly and Niel, the Mount Gambier Cycling Club continues to strengthen its presence on the state and national stage.

The club is grateful to Rob Mann, Matthew Opperman, Mike Bakker and Dave Tye for their assistance in getting the riders ready to race, while the Limestone Coast Regional Sporting Academy plays a pivotal role in the development of the junior riders as well.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHELLE MCKENNY