Holly Harris has had an exceptional year.
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The mountain biking superstar has finished on the podium at national level, represented her country at the World Championships, won the iconic Cape to Cape event and is ranked second in the Australian women’s standings.
Her feats have been recognised by Cycling Australia who announced Harris as a finalist, alongside Tracey Hannah, for their elite cyclist of the year award.
Harris admitted she had no idea her name had been put forward for the prestigious honour.
“I didn't even know, they didn't even talk to me about it,” she told The Armidale Express.
“Everyone was messaging me.”
Harris said although it was a surprise, she was proud to be named alongside the country’s best.
“I have had my ups and downs but it was definitely a good year,” she said.
“It does mean a lot I guess because there are a lot of talented cyclists in Australia and it is nice to be recognised.
“I didn't actually win the national championships this year which is why it did come as a surprise to me.
“In the stage races and stuff I have had a few good performances and the national series has been pretty good as well.”
Harris put a lot of her success this year down to the way she trained.
“Better training, smarter training and I have some really, really good friends that I train with around here so they are really helpful,” she said.
The Armidale local is aiming to make mountain biking a full-time profession but said one of the upsides to the sport is competing around the country and the globe.
“It is pretty cool, I am very lucky actually,” she said.
“You definitely see some pretty cool places riding the bike.
“Especially like Czech Republic and those sort of places, you think 'I would never go there' and then the next minute you are there.”