CYCLING star Kendelle Hodges is this month’s Don Deeble Rising Sports Star.
The 18-year-old continues to excel in her sport after making the leap from the junior section at the end of last year.
Hodges will receive a $1000 cheque courtesy of Yarraville Club Cricket Club in conjunction with the Sunshine and Western Region sports Club for the nomination – her second in as many years.
The Werribee resident was nominated in 2009 and went on to finish runner-up overall for her blistering performances on the national scene and her selection in the junior Australian cycling team but has continued to lift her game since.
After heading to Moscow last year for the World Championships, she exceeded expectations with a fourth place finish in the time trial.
She went on to take the step in to the Under 23 and open sections, producing a top 10 finish in the criterium at the national championships.
But her crowning achievement was when she was given the award for Female Junior Cyclist of the Year in front of the cream of Australia’s cycling fraternity last year.
Hodges said the financial support she has received through the Don Deeble award had been an enormous help with her blossoming career.
“It has been a great help. Their support is really good and it is not easy. I am at uni and trying to train as well full-time, so it’s a bit hard to work as well. I squeeze a bit in now and then so this money will go a long way.”
Hodges said the $1000 she will receive tomorrow night at Medway Golf Club would be put towards a new time trial bike.
“I don’t have my own time trial bike, so I am in the middle of sorting out buying a new time trial bike so it will go towards that.
“It depends which one I want or how much I can get. It can cost a few thousand.”
As the Don Deeble nominee this month, Hodges receives $1000 as well as a pair of New Balance runners and a six-month World Gym membership.
To nominate someone for the Don Deeble award, call the sports desk on 9933 4810 or email starsport@starnewsgroup.com.au
