18/10/2026
The dust has settled and now we all get time to reflect on what an amazing weekend of gravel racing that was for Australia, and more importantly, my home away from home, Nannup. Everybody has their own story from racing, supporting their loved ones or seeing their international heroes here on home soil. Mine's a little different because it's the mechanic's point of view. Being the official unofficial event mechanic for UCI Gravel World Championships it was so nice to be there to support my clients and friends who were racing, and knowing that if they had trouble the night before they could call me any time. I was also honoured to be hired by Netcompany INEOS Cycling Team to look after Connor Swift for his world championship campaign (seriously, no pressure). After meeting Connor I was pleasantly surprised at what a lovely and humble young man he is. I stripped, cleaned, rebuilt and optimised his drivetrain and bike, torque, tire pressures, set up spare wheels, and reoptimised it all the next day after the initial break in period. I handed back the bike to Connor and the next day was race day. I'm sure everyone knows the result - Connor made an amazing effort. I know he was very disappointed at being third and being pipped at the line after a long leadout and sprint. You can see from the photo below that I took at the finish line that he should be very happy to have the bronze because he did an amazing sprint throw of his bike over the finish line to claim it. Well done mate, and I look forward to seeing you in the future! Now what does a 50 year old bike mechanic do when all the athletes have left town? He goes and has fun on his own bike to remind himself why he fell in love with this sport and occupation 35 years ago.
