The Launceston-based team supports cyclists from across Tasmania in training towards competing at their target events across a range of disciplines.

Launched in 2017, the team is preparing for the domestic cycling season ahead with a camp in Derby next month. 

Reigning Australian under-23 cross-country mountain bike champion Alex Lack, of Wyena, returns to captain the team into a stacked season of racing on both dirt and road fresh from representing Australia at the MTB world championships in Lenzerheide, Switzerland.

Other team members include Launceston's Riley Cowling and Hamish McKenzie and Hobart's Tom Cheesman and Ben Kershaw. 

In a new collaboration with the University of Tasmania's sports science faculty, athletes have been granted access to top-level personnel, facilities and coaching practices. The team also places a strong focus on giving back to local cycling clubs, with all program members encouraged to provide volunteer assistance at club events.

Team creator Phil Leslie said this highlights the team’s core values of gratitude, integrity, accountability and service.

“The Van Diemen Cycling Team is an exciting and inclusive approach to supporting the next generation of Tasmanian cyclists,” he said.

“We have grown from strength to strength providing Tasmanian riders, Tasmanian support from local businesses.

“VDC will provide an environment and support network to all of its members, assisting them to represent themselves and the team’s sponsors at local, state and national level races. All members will have access to support personnel and travel assistance to offset interstate travel costs.”

All team members have access to support personnel, professional coaching and group training opportunities provided by Leslie with a focus on skill development and learning race craft.

UTAS’s exercise science discipline is donating sport science support to VDC riders.

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