Round 3 of the UCI World Cup headed to Papendal, Holland over the weekend. With Dani George still recovering from injury, Anthony Dean was representing us alongside fulfilling his role on the Australian National Team. This was the last World Cup before the World Championships in Colombia in 3 weeks time and the Olympic Games in Rio, so it was a very important event to gain points for Olympic selection.

Anthony was on his third weekend in a row racing but as planned, continues building results, confidence and speed week-by-week. During qualification, he felt he was back to where he needs to be – winning laps and placing 2nd in the semi final behind 2 x Olympic Champion, Maris Strombergs.

Going up for the final, Anthony really looked like he had a shot to win or get on the podium but got a little sideways out of the gate, which shut down his momentum so he hit plan B mode and started to put himself in a good position down the first straight enabling him to start picking off some riders on the track to still get a good result.

Unfortunately, Joris Daudet, who was battling with Maris Strombergs, went down on the second straight and Anthony ran into the back of him resulting in the end of his race and a 7th place finish for the day. Not the result he was looking for, especially riding and feeling good, but he takes away more confidence to build on and good form going into the World Championships.

Thanks to the Australian National Team for taking care of Anthony over in Europe and to all of our team sponsors for their support.

Stay Strong, Goliath Financial, Zola Clean, Kick Start Fat Loss, GEICO, BaronaCasino, wd40Bike,ride100percent, Shimano, Walmart, ODIGrips,Answer Racing, Tioga, Box Components, Stealth Hubs.

Photos: Craig Dutton.