MILTON BACK IN THE SADDLE
Posted:
Skier-turned-cyclist, Michael Milton, will compete in the Australian Elite Track Cycling Championships in Sydney this week, returning to racing just four months after major surgery for Oesophageal Cancer.
A gold medallist in the 3000m pursuit at the same event last year, Milton is hoping to post some times that will put him in favour with selectors who, in July, will announce Australia's cycling team to compete at the Beijing Paralympic Games. With at least 15 male cyclists vying for the seven spots, Milton is realistic about his chances.
'I'm not in top form yet and time is against me but this week offers a great chance to measure my progress. Even if I don't make the Paralympic team, getting back into racing has been great for my recovery,' said Milton, who has two more chances to record qualifying times before the July deadline.
He will focus on the 1km Time Trial, instead of the longer 3000m pursuit, his best event in 2007.
'Strength comes back first, then endurance so the shorter event is the better option at this stage. The kilo offers my best chance to qualify,' said a determined Milton.
1km Time Trial
7pm, Monday 4 February
Dunc Gray Velodrome, Bass Hill
3000m Pursuit
1pm, Wednesday 6 February
Dunc Gray Velodrome, Bass Hill
Photo courtesy The Canberra Times