It's the 12-year-old's third title in recent times, including

the Victorian Hill Climb and Road Championships.

Courtney attributes her success to her coach Luke Postlethwaite. "I started to train under him last year and he's helped me a lot to reach the standard I have to compete.

"Last year, when I started competing, I also picked up my sponsor, Velt, which all helps to take me beyond being a novice."

Courtney trains three hours a day, four days a week, to keep fit. "I compete in triathlons for endurance practice. It hones my tactic and speed skills.

"The problem is finding time to do my homework. I try to do that at lunch time.

"The best thing about racing competitions is I get to meet new people and to see the views along the way."

Courtney's most memorable race was the state road championships at Wangaratta.

"Eleven girls competed on a hilly stretch. When I saw I was among the four in front, I sprinted home.

"The ride was steep, an endurance test. So is the road we use for the Leongatha Club championships. Those roads are hilly. But the most challenging aspect about racing is winning.

"It is hard to win at competitions because I race against the best girls in Victoria."

The Under-13 champion aspires to compete in the Junior Olympics once she turns 16 and - one day - to join a professional team

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