Brenton Jones (Junior) - The Championships were an amazing experience. Firstly, to represent your country, sponsors and family on your own doorstep is something in itself but combining all these things into a World Championships was truly awesome. A highlight was when we were given our team tracksuit and team kit, which made you feel very proud and important.

Cal Britten (Under 23’s) It’s something most elite athletes aspire too but never achieve; a world championship in front of a home crowd! Thankfully the fantastic Aussie crowd kept me going until the end and I managed to pull my best result of the season out of the bag- 19th! Making it the highlight of my year! Thanks to all the Aussie's who came out and made the week so fantastic for us!

Jo Wall (Elite Female) What a trip it’s been! My world’s campaign started in the darkest part of winter waking up to the alarm clock at 5.30am every other day, forcing myself to summon up the energy and motivation for those early mornings ergo sessions. Race day was spectacular, it was so nice to see familiar faces and hear encouragement from close friends on the start line. Throughout the race the supporters on course were inspiring. I didn't really see much as I was quite focused on the track but the support being hurled from the sidelines was amazing, especially the technical sections. It was a great lift and made the pain just that little bit more bearable! Ticking off my first world championship and although I don't expect to race another one on home turf, I do hope to put in an appearance in many others overseas.

Photo courtesy St Mel Designs

Katherine O’Shea (Elite Female) Qualifying for the World Championships was particularly special for me. Not only was it a major season goal but it was also a “home” championship with a fanatical home crowd to support me and all the other Aussies. Like anyone who lined up on the grid with me, I had big expectations of myself to perform. This was also my first Worlds, the first time I had ever pulled on the Australian colors. It was a special day. My ability to ride all the technical sections brought a smile to my face along with every deafening cheer from the crowds. The noise and atmosphere helped wipe away the pain in my legs and lungs. While on paper it wasn’t my best result the joy of crossing the finish line in front of the massive crowd was an awesome experience and made me very proud to be representing Australia for the first time.

Dan McConnell (Elite Male) What a fantastic day! Hit them hard hit them early (TORQ team motto) - certainly not the best race tactics at world level but that’s the situation I found myself in. Hitting the first piece of single track, the noise of the chanting crowds spurred me on despite the pain in my legs. Even though I went out slightly too hard, it was an awesome experience having Absalom on my wheel. Something I won’t forget in a hurry!

For those of you that went to Canberra this year, I’m sure you had a great week like we did! Thanks for reading and thanks to all the supporters who made the trek to Canberra.

Cheers, Dean Clark