That’s how well-credentialled mountain biker-turned-road racer Steven Roberts summed up his surprise decision to nominate for division one of the 105-kilometre Gunnedah to Tamworth Graded Scratch Races on Sunday.

A recent convert to road racing, the 16-year-old will contest his debut state open race against a strong field that includes reigning national and state champions.

“I definitely think I can learn something,” he said. 

“I don’t know. I suppose I’ll see how it goes on the weekend.”

The Year 11 Oxley High School student finished 11th at the cross-country national championships at Armidale in February.

He then impressed at the Autumn Festival Criterium in Armidale.

Since then he has bolstered his road experience at Tamworth Cycle Club.

“I am enjoying it,” he said. 

“It’s very different to mountain bikes. I’m having a lot of fun.”

While it is understood Roberts’ decision to nominate for division one raised a few eyebrows, TCC president Min McDonald welcomed the move.

She said the race handicapper had the option to place Roberts in a lower division.

“It’s a big call from him to step straight into division one,” she said.

But she added: “Steven’s demonstrated that he certainly has the pace.

“Whether or not he’s got the experience to deal with the strategy that will be in play on the day, I guess that’s what Steven’s going to learn on Sunday.”

McDonald said 144 riders had entered the race and another 10 to 15 were expected to enter on the day.

Another TCC member, Conor Noonan, 16, will compete in division four.

McDonald said having Roberts and Noonan in the race was a big positive for TCC’s youth push this year – a “really exciting development for the club”.