Taylor awarded Amy Gillett scholarship

The Amy Gillett Foundation has announced 18 year-old Carlee Taylor as the recipient of the 2008 Amy Gillett Scholarship. The South Australia-based was successful against some of Australia’s most talented rising stars from all parts of the country, including Junior World Champions and World Record holders.

"You’re joking, that’ fantastic," said Taylor when informed of the news. "Thank you so much."

Taylor her competitive cycling career in 2007 after crossing over from triathlon competition. Since taking up cycling, her impressive achievements include first place U23 Australian Women’s Road Championship, fourth place U23 Australian Women’s Time Trial Championship, first place U19 National Road Series and selection in the Australian Junior Road Team.

The Scholarship provides financial and in-kind support for the recipient, explined AGF General Manager Melinda Jacobsen. Recipients including assistance with travel, accommodation and expenses whilst competing overseas with the AIS Women’s team; a Giant road bike for training and competition; Oakley eye wear products, airfares and access to AIS clinical services during training camps at the AIS.

"Each year we look to support a well-rounded female athlete who is not only determined and capable of excelling in the sport of cycling, but who acknowledges the importance of continued further education and life off the bike," said Jacobsen. "We are thrilled with the phenomenal response from Australian women cyclists."

The Amy Gillett Scholarship, now in its third year, is well-established as an important avenue for developing women cyclists to get their chance to compete at the highest levels of the sport and is presented in conjunction with the Australian Institute of Sport High Performance Program. The dual emphasis on work and learning reflects the qualities successfully pursued by elite cyclist Amy Gillett before she was killed whilst on a training ride in Germany.