Jack Edwards is used to the rush of the cycling track, rounding bends at lightning speed and leaving his competitors in the dust.
But on Thursday, January 25, Edwards experienced a different kind of adrenaline when he was called to the stage to accept the Greater Shepparton and Shepparton Junior Sports Award.
“I feel very happy and privileged just to be nominated, let alone to win for Greater Shepparton and Shepparton,” he said.
“I’d like to thank Mum and Dad for their support, my coaches (Brad and Rhianon Norton of Proform Coaching), the Shepparton Cycling Club, and all the people in the community who’ve helped me on my journey.
“It means a lot to me, and it’s helped me progress to where I am at the moment.”
Since situating himself behind the handlebars in 2020, Edwards has competed in competitions across the Goulburn Valley, ranking high among a talented field of riders.
Off the track, Edwards is an active and valued member of the Shepparton Cycling Club.
In a change of gears, he assists with come-and-try days and general training sessions, talking with the younger members and encouraging them to do their best.
“I tend to try and give a few tips and tricks to the kids, or maybe some training to help them,” he said.
City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali praised the 16-year-old prodigy for sharing his passion with others and for “the fire inside him and his determination and fight”.
It’s this dedication that has earned Edwards a chance to put his pedals – and his mettle – to the test on an international level.
“This year, hopefully, I’ll get over to Belgium for six weeks to do a bit of international racing, get a bit of exposure, race in all the big races around there – the national race series, and then, hopefully, the Oceania Track Championships as well.”