Cycle of success

Two Coastal Lakes College students are celebrating strong performances at the Australian Junior Track National Championships held in March as part of the Brisbane Cycling Festival, despite both being ill.

Cooper Dunlop, Year 11 won gold in the under 17 Boys Sprint and bronze in the under 17 Boys Individual Pursuit, proving himself as one of the top young cyclists in the country. 

Cienna Tinkler, Year 8, secured three bronze medals in the under 17 Girls Team Pursuit, the under 17 Girls Individual Pursuit, and the under 17 Girls Sprint. 

Cooper’s achievements in the velodrome are further accolades to his burgeoning cycling career where he’s also competed in BMX, mountain biking, road racing and cyclo-cross.  

“At the Championships, I felt sick, but I didn’t let that hold me back. I pushed through and just had eyes for racing,” Cooper said.  

“The support from my mum and dad is what got me through and after the first day, was motivation to pursue to the gold and bronze medals. 

 “I am looking forward to road racing in Belgium and the Netherlands. I’m also looking forward to racing in Malaysia on the second, third and fourth of May.” 

Cienna is showing great promise after only recently taking up the sport.  

“Considering I have been doing track cycling for seven months, I am super proud of how I raced,” she said. 

“The girls are incredibly strong and to know I can match their ability is a huge confidence boost. 

“I still rode to the best of my abilities considering it was tough, because I was ill. The support from everyone in WA was overwhelming and definitely helped me in my race. 

“I’m looking forward to my trip to Malaysia at the beginning of May, where I get to represent Australia and compete at an international level.” 

Coastal Lakes College Principal Paul Cooke expressed immense pride in the pair, their achievements serving as an inspiration to fellow students and the wider community. 

"Cooper and Cienna’s dedication, perseverance, and passion for their sport are truly inspiring,” Mr Cooke said. 

“Their achievements on the national stage reflect their hard work and commitment, and we couldn’t be prouder of their success which they are both so deserving of."  

Full results of the 2025 AusCycling Track National Championships are available on the Auscycling website.