WAIS Cyclists Star at State Omnium Champs

WAIS Cycling Coach Darryl Benson has predicted a strong showing from his group preparing for the National Omnium Titles, after some impressive results at the State Championships recently.

WAIS scholarship holder Bella King claimed the women’s crown at the WA Omnium Championships, with a measured performance to finish ahead of Tian Beckett (WAIS) in second (first U19), Kelsey Robson (WAIS) in third (second U19) and Elissa Wundersitz (third U19).

Former WAIS scholarship holder Stephen Hall claimed the men’s title, with the WAIS U19 contingent of Trent Deracourt (first U19), Theo Yates (second U19) and Brad Lindfield (third U19) finishing behind.

Benson – who coaches the group from the Midvale Speed Dome – said he was happy with the performances of his competing group, which claimed all but one of the medals on offer.

“From my point of view they were very pleasing efforts,” he said. “Particularly considering they are in a heavy block of training, focussed on the National Omnium Championships in Melbourne in mid-December.”

“Considering the results, I think they’ll have a strong showing at nationals.”

Whilst the group is eyeing the national titles, Bella King has been confirmed to compete for Australia in the Oceania Championships in Invercargill, New Zealand in November, where she will contest the Omnium, as well as potentially lining up in the teams pursuit.

“It was a good performance for Bella as it gives her confidence ahead of the Oceania Champs later in the year,” Benson said.

“The Omnium will certainly be her priority in New Zealand, but it’s just nice for her to get another taste of representing Australia.”