Australian cycling prodigy Sarah Gigante has never shied away from the brutal truth of elite competition – she thrives on making her rivals suffer. The 24-year-old, often dubbed 'Australia's Cycling Queen', admits her tactics might seem ruthless, but they’re undeniably effective.
"It's a bit mean, but I love to make others hurt," Gigante confesses with a grin. "When I'm pushing the pace, attacking on climbs, and seeing the pain on their faces – that's when I know I'm doing my job."
The Making of a Champion
Gigante’s rise in the cycling world has been nothing short of meteoric. From her early days as a junior champion to her current status as one of the most feared climbers in the peloton, her relentless drive sets her apart.
"I’ve always been competitive," she says. "Even as a kid, I hated losing. Now, I channel that into every race. If I can break someone’s spirit with a brutal climb, I will."
The Psychology of Suffering
Gigante’s approach isn’t just physical – it’s psychological. She studies her opponents, learns their weaknesses, and exploits them without hesitation.
"Cycling is as much a mental game as it is physical," she explains. "If I can make someone doubt themselves early, the race is halfway won."
Looking Ahead
With the Olympics and Tour de France on the horizon, Gigante shows no signs of slowing down. Her philosophy remains simple: push harder, suffer more, and leave everyone else in her wake.
"I don’t race to be liked," she says. "I race to win. And if that means being the villain, so be it."
