Three inspirational Georges River cycling athletes are set to represent Australia at this year's Paralympic and Olympic Games.
Local residents and world champions Kaarle McCulloch and Ashlee Ankudinoff will join the 15 strong national track cycling team to compete in the Tokyo Olympics from July 23 to August 8 2021.
Multiple world champion Amanda Reid will also compete in the Tokyo Paralympics from August 24 to September 5.
With 43 Olympic and Commonwealth Games medals up their sleeves, the trio are among more than 100 St George Cycling Club riders that raced into history books, having represented their country, trained and raced at the iconic Hurstville Oval velodrome and Oatley Park.
Ms McCulloch, Ankudinoff and Reid train three days a week at St George cycling facilities in Hurstville and Oatley, and two days in the gym working their fitness, strength and technical aspects.
Cyclist Kaarle McCulloch, 33, said she was excited to be taking part in this year's games.
"I am proud to call Georges River home," she said.
"St George Cycling Club is renowned for helping talented athletes transition to international level through great coaching and facilities.
"When I return from national team bases in Adelaide and Brisbane, I am confident that I will return home to a top standard training environment and a team that can prepare me for future Olympics."
The velodrome in Hurstville was used as a bike track from the 1920's, where Dunc Gray trained to win Australia's first Olympic cycling gold medal in 1932.
Since 1956 Melbourne Olympics, St George Cycling Club members have represented the nation at every Olympic and Commonwealth Games.
The training tracks were given a major overhaul and resurface, making it possible and safe for high-speed top athletes to train and compete after Georges River Council provided $79,000 in financial and an additional $100,000 through the NSW Government's Stronger Community funding and support,
Long-standing St George Cycling administrator Phill Bates said the improvements were welcomed by all members of the club.
"The funding support was a lifeline to the Club and has made it possible to continue to develop new talent who will also go on to represent their country or just improve their lifestyle," he said.
"It is a cycling velodrome accessible to all."
Georges River Mayor Kevin Greene said the council was proud to support the regions athletes in achieving their sporting dreams.
"Our elite athletes are our national pride for all Australians," he said.
"Competing at the Olympics and Paralympic Games is the pinnacle of every athlete's sporting dreams.
"We are proud to support our local sportspersons as they make their final preparations for the Games.
"It is a tremendous honour for these athletes to represent our country and our local community. I am sure the entire Georges River will join me in wishing them well in Tokyo."
For more information on Georges River Council, visit: georgesriver.nsw.gov.au or call: 9330 6400.
