Bendigo cyclist Robert Gartside has finished a week of strong performances at the Alice Springs Masters Games.
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Gartside competed in various road and track cycling events within the 35-39 age bracket, winning multiple medals.
Gold in the road criterium with a time of 2:43:30, gold in the 80km road race with a time of 2:23:05.98, gold in the flying 200m sprint, gold in the 20km road time trial, silver in the 100m road sprint and another silver in the 10-lap scratch race.
A major personal challenge Gartside needed to overcome, was managing his blood glucose levels, which at times required close monitoring during endurance events.
“During the 80km ride I had to carry lots of additional food on me to keep my energy up throughout the event,” Gartside said.
“The wins have given me plenty of confidence in my ability as a cyclist.
“It feels really rewarding that all of the planning, hard races and pushing myself to be my best has finally paid off.
“I exceeded my own expectations, I came to the Games with the hope of finishing the events, let alone winning gold medals.”
Gartside is a member of the Bendigo and District Cycling Club and Central Victorian Veterans Cycling Club.
Fellow BDCC members David Woolley, Kerri McCreddan and Ken Lacey also won numerous medals at the Alice Springs Masters Games.
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