By John Michael Flynn in Sydney
It was almost lost in all the hype surrounding the Victorians last night at the Australian Track Cycling Championships, but the performance of the man in the stars and stripes, Jame Carney, should not go without special mention.
The thirty eight year old veteran track legend rode like a man half his age against the young Australians in the scratch race - and held on for a very impressive silver medal, after being outgunned by Zak Dempster in the sprint.
When Cyclingnews caught up with Carney post race he was singing the praises of his Australian opponents. And with one of the best resume's in the business, he should know. "It's an honour to be allowed to race and to be able to place at your guys nationals is incredible," Carney said. "You're the number one cycling nation in the world, no matter what anyone says."
The de facto Tasmanian is in better condition than when Cyclingnews touched bases with him at the Tasmanian Christmas carnivals where he was suffering from a severe bout of bronchitis. "I'm really happy given I had a crappy Christmas. Did a lot of dirt road riding (in Tasmania) and I'm pretty fit right now," Carney said.
The American needs to be fit given his packed program at the Australian championships as both a rider and coach. As well as racing, Carney has been keeping an eye on the progress of fellow American Erica Allar and Tasmanian Laura McCaughey, who was most impressive in last night's quarter finals of the women's sprint.
For full coverage of the Australian Track Championships click here.
