Mackay Cycling Club competitors Peter Ransome and David O’Connell delivered strong performances at the Queensland Masters Track Cycling Titles, held at the Anna Meares Velodrome in Brisbane. Both competed in the Masters events, while young club member Matt Schatkowski represented Mackay in the Juniors.
Peter Ransome, competing in his age category in the Masters division, achieved a career highlight with a dominant display across multiple events. Ransom claimed a gold medal in the Keirin, a fast-paced, tactical race that requires exceptional sprinting ability. He also secured three silver medals in the Scratch, Elimination, and Points Races, proving his versatility and endurance in both short and long-distance formats.
Ransome’s success comes on the heels of his recent triumph at the Townsville Cup on Wheels, where he won the B-Grade Keirin trophy and dominated the combined handicap race, claiming the main event title.
David O’Connell, another seasoned competitor for Mackay Cycling Club, also had a strong showing at the State Championships. O’Connell earned a silver medal in the Keirin and a bronze in the Points Race, showcasing his versatility and tactical acumen against a competitive Masters field.
In the Junior division, Mackay’s U15 rider Matt Schatkowski faced a steep learning curve in his first state-level competition on an indoor velodrome. Despite adapting well in early races, a crash on the second night cut his campaign short. Despite this setback, the experience gained against a highly competitive field will serve as a valuable stepping stone in his development as a rider.
Peter Ransome (left) and David O’Connell display their medals at the Anna Meares Velodrome, celebrating a successful campaign at the Queensland Masters Track Cycling Titles