For Western Sydney’s newest world champion, cycling has always been part of family life. Introduced to the sport by her father – a national champion in India – she quickly fell in love with the freedom, adventure and competition it offered.

“Travelling to different towns to race, exploring new places on two wheels… those early experiences made me want to take cycling as far as I could,” she recalls.

A proud Lidcombe local, she grew up training across Western Sydney, often facing long solo rides, early starts and limited access to racing. But those challenges built resilience, and the Western Sydney Academy of Sport (WSAS) provided the support she needed.

“WSAS gave me access to incredible coaches, a velodrome, and friendships that shaped who I am,” she said.

A Breakout Season on the World Stage

In the space of one extraordinary year, Anna progressed from National Champion to Oceania Champion and finally, to World Champion in the Junior Women’s Points Race. At just 17, she delivered a powerhouse performance to secure the rainbow jersey.

“It still feels surreal,” she admits. “All those little moments of hard work finally came together. I’m proud of myself, but even more grateful for the people who helped me get here.”

Her call-up for the World Championships came unexpectedly while racing on the road in Europe. She returned home, refocused on the track, and trained through a cold Western Sydney winter.

Arriving in the Netherlands, the championship atmosphere was unforgettable. Flags from every nation hung over the velodrome, the hum of wheels echoed through the arena, and the reality of her dream began to sink in.

“Every moment of that trip reminded me why I love this sport so much,” she said. “Crossing the line and realising I’d won was pure relief, joy and pride all rolled into one.”

The Race That Changed Everything

As she crossed the finish line in Apeldoorn, emotion overwhelmed her.

“The only words in my head were, ‘I did it.’ Riding around with the Aussie flag… I wanted to soak up every second. That last lap, sitting up while everyone sprinted…I’ll never forget it.”

Balancing School and Sport

In the same year she became a world champion, she also completed her HSC, a juggling act that required honesty, planning and a realistic understanding of her limits.

With school now behind her, she’s turning her focus to the National Road Championships as she steps into the Under-23 category, with a full European racing season ahead in 2026.

Her proudest achievement so far isn’t the world title, it’s her 2025 Road National Championship win, a monumental comeback after two serious head injuries the year before.

She also credits her brother as her biggest supporter.

“My brother always puts me first, cheers me up after tough races, and celebrates my wins like they’re his. I wouldn’t be here without him.”

Advice for Emerging Athletes

To young regional athletes dreaming of wearing green and gold, her advice is simple:

“Believe in yourself. Don’t let others decide your limits. Keep showing up on the tough days. Use pressure as motivation – not something to fear.”

Her journey is one of passion, persistence and community and a powerful reminder that world-class athletes can emerge from anywhere, including the bike paths of Western Sydney.

As she begins the next chapter of her cycling career, one thing is certain: this is only the beginning.