Grace Sulzberger (22) - "....my goal to win the 2011 Women's National Road Series has been accomplished"
During her school years, Grace participated in running and other school sports, eventually finding her way to cycling, competing as a junior in U13 to U17. Grace’s parents are keen cyclists and because of this heritage the family name is one of the most revered in cycling - Grace is the sister of Bernard (Fly V Australia) and Wesley (Francaise Des Jeux). The brothers take special interest in their little sister and provide advice and opinion whenever required; such is the case when your brothers are international cycling stars.
As a junior, Grace competed at club and national level and was later selected as an Australian junior road team member competing in Belgium. Shortly after in 2008 Grace succumbed to a serious illness and took a two year break. It wasn’t until Grace had the opportunity to watch brother Wesley compete at the 2010 World Titles held in Geelong that her interest in cycling was rekindled and she returned to the bike and training late in 2010. Her return to cycling coincided with the formation of the Pure Tasmania and Deloitte team at which time she was invited to join.
Since joining the team, Grace has successfully competed in major 2011 national events such as the Launceston International Criterium, the SmokeFree Perth Criteriums and the National Road Series. After the final stage of the 2011 National Road Series, Grace was placed outright winner with a point score of 816 points. Grace’s return to cycling has been nothing less than remarkable. Her determination and enthusiasm after experiencing such a serious illness will undoubtedly translate into positive outcomes for the remainder of her cycling career. Grace is a recipient of a 2011 Tasmanian Institute of Sport cycling scholarship and an important member of the team. Grace’s return to cycling at the time of the team's formation was coincidental but well timed and the team is fortunate to have her as a member.
Grace’s goal for 2012 is to build on her 2011 season and rank for selection as an AIS national and international team member while remaining with the team to defend her 2011 achievements.
