Campbell fulfils dream, joins top Aussie club

OLYMPIC-BOUND pro rider Teniel Campbell has switched cycling clubs and joined Australia's Mitchelton-Scott team. Campbell, 23, signed a two-year contract recently at Mitchelton-Scott's service course in Italy and toured the team's facilities.

In an Instagram post on Wednesday morning, Campbell said joining the Aussie club was a lifelong dream.

"Still pinching myself as it has not completely sunk in. It feels as though I’ve signed for an ivy league college that you constantly dream about attending at such a young age. After such a nail biting period I am happy to announce that I have signed for @mitchelton_scott for the next two seasons. This has always been a dream ever since I was training/developing under the UCI World Cycling Centre," she said.

Campbell, who made her Giro Rosa debut with Valcar Travel & Service last month, thanked the Italian club for her year with them.

The road cyclist, TT's first female rider to qualify for the Olympics, is keen to continue developing with the Australian team.

"Looking forward to absorb the knowledge, my continued growth and development, transferring everything learnt onto the bike and within the race with great enthusiasm," she posted.

She also had some word of advice for other athletes, quoting inspirational author Doe Zantamata.

“It starts with a dream. Add faith, and it becomes a belief. Add action, and it becomes a part of life. Add perseverance, and it becomes a goal in sight. Add patience and time, and it ends with a dream come true.”

Campbell has been battling in Europe and endured tough outings at the prestigious Giro Rosa and Road World Championship. She had a nasty fall from her bike earlier this year and was on ground zero as covid19 exploded in Italy with over 37,000 deaths and 565,00 overall cases.

"Honestly, after such a difficult year it really feels even more special! I am just extremely excited to embark on this journey, mate. No more words left. I am just ready to take the leap and continue to see how far I will go."