25 Oct Jenna Merrick Sets New Goals And Signs For Mike Greer Homes Womens Cycling Team For 2019
Jenna Merrick is the first of our new riders to join the Mike Greer Homes Womens Cycling Team for 2019. Merrick was the 2018 Oceania Omnium U19 Track Champion, 2018 Oceania Road Race U19 Silver medallist and was selected to represent NZ at both the World Track and World Road Championships for 2018.
Involved in a serious crash and a broken elbow just before heading to track worlds meant Jenna was unable to compete in either the track or road championships. Merrick turned this disappointment into a burning desire to continue her development as a cyclist with an increased emphasis on the road. “Despite the challenges I have faced, and those still to come, my outlook on cycling and goals remain the same. My ultimate cycling dream is to represent my country, New Zealand, in the Elite Women’s field at the Olympics and World Championships, and win a gold medal. To do this I want to develop my skills and strength in an international racing environment during 2019, alongside a team of like-minded young women” says Jenna.
Team Manager, Patrick Harvey has watched Jenna develop as a cyclist since her early years at Baradene and has always been impressed by her attitude and approach to cycling: “Jenna is not afraid to take risks, she backs her physical and technical strengths with a no-nonsense go for it attitude. This was clearly on display at the Oceania Road Race Championships when she attacked the field to create the winning break in shocking weather conditions on a treacherous descent. That takes guts and skills and what we are looking for in our riders!”
Merrick’s strengths across the board and her ability to finish fast will be a great addition to the team. Patrick says “her proven track record of working within a team and bringing out the best of her team mates is just what the team is looking for. We are ALL about team work.”
To get a further insight into our riders we asked a few questions, here is what Jenna had to say:
Why do you love cycling?
“I love pushing my body hard and testing myself. Cycling is a really tough sport, mentally and physically so offers a great way to do so. I also love the serenity of riding on the road, it helps me refocus on my body and my thoughts, amidst the business of life.”
What are your most memorable experiences so far in your cycling career>
“Being part of Baradene Cycling Club at high school, the first time I represented New Zealand (at Oceania road Champs 2017), winning Oceania Omnium title on the track, competing in the Bahamas for Youth Commonwealth Games.”
Who is your cycling idol?
“Emily Collins! She used to ride for Baradene and went on to ride for Wiggle, TIBCO, and Vanderkitten teams, even winning the NZ Elite Crit Champs a few years ago… its particularly inspiring watching someone who took a similar path to you (bara cycling) being so successful in the sport.”
Who best represents the type of cyclist you would like most to be like?
“Amy Pieters”
What is the ultimate race you would like to experience?
“Definitely the world champs! It has been a dream of mine for years now to ride for NZ at worlds, and it’s even more important to me that I get there one day, after being selected for Junior Worlds this year and not being able to race. You would be in denial if you had never dreamed of pulling the rainbows of your head, the ultimate cyclist’s dream I think!”
What is your favourite Womens UCI team?
“Mitchellton- Scott, it’s always a bit special supporting a team who is a bit closer to home…”
What is your favourite indulgent food?
“That is actually a very hard question since I LOVE food!!! It would have to be a gooey caramel slice with a big layer of chocolate on the top”
What do you hope to accomplish with MGHWCT in 2019
“I hope to establish good relationships with my fellow team members and an ability to work together with them in races to achieve our common goal. I am excited for the racing opportunities the team provides, that I otherwise wouldn’t have, particularly overseas racing.”