Sutton’s Joanna Rowsell-Shand MBE will take to the track for two events at Rio 2016 this week.
The current Olympic champion will compete in the team pursuit this evening and the individual pursuit on Saturday.
Sutton resident Rowsell-Shand will be hoping to replicate her London 2012 success where she won two gold medals.
The 27-year-old also has Wold, European and Commonwealth Championship titles under her belt.
Often named the unsung star of British track cycling, Rowsell-Shand’s individual achievements have not always been recognised.
Great Britain’s stint at the cycling World Championships two years ago was deemed disastrous, yet Rowsell-Shand managed to claim victory in her individual events.
Prior to her success, the reigning Commonwealth cyclist never considered life on the track, that is, until she was scouted by British cycling while at school.
Despite rarely riding, the already accomplished swimmer was hesitant about attending a talent day, but used her competitive nature to focus on winning rather than show potential.
The five-time World Champion’s cycling career began with a rocky start after coming last in her first two races.
The Brit developed an interest for the individual pursuit after watching Bradley Wiggins win gold at the Olympics in Athens in 2004.
Rowsell-Shand’s cycling achievements in Colombia in 2014 have been noted as the most successful to date but she is hoping to triumph even further this summer.
