It seems para cyclist Patrick (Patty) Best is always up for a challenge.
After tasting success as a national road and track cyclist, Patty’s been turning his attention to mountain biking, and it’s paying off.
Another medal at the Australian Enduro Nationals last month (October 23) is his latest achievement.
“I had silver last year, but this year I’ve received the gold,” Patty told us.
Improving fitness and skills has been key, he explained.
“It was tough racing,” Patty said. “I lost the first stage by .2 of a second.”
(Both images: Australian Mountain Biking Magazine)
But he went on to win in the Adaptive 2 class. Congratulations Patty!
Patty is one of the athletes ParaQuad Tasmania supports through its Athlete Development Fund.
It provides Tasmanians with physical disability the opportunity to participate in sport at a social, state, national or international level. The Fund was established to support these athletes with direct financial support. Find out more here: Athlete-Development-Grant-Application-Form-December-2018.pdf (pdstasmania.org)
What’s next for Patty? Plenty.
In 2024 he plans to compete in Road Nationals in Ballarat and a World Cup event in Adelaide. Then there’s a downhill MTB event in NSW and the Gravel Nationals in Derby, Tasmania. Patty’s also keen to be part of the next Enduro Nationals in WA next October.
“So busy next 12 months, but excited to see how I can progress, particularly in para MTB.”
Watch this space.