Caleb McKenzie (Tas Junior Cycling Foundation) and Elsie Apps (Goulburn Cycling Club) have completed their Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic campaigns with the men’s and women’s individual time trials.
McKenzie missed the podium by the most minimal of margins, 0.04 seconds, but was proud of his efforts to finish fourth overall on the 8.5-kilometre course.
He crossed the line in second place as he waited for another 16 riders to chase down his time.
“It was a good day. I was obviously very close to a podium and very close to a win, but I’d say it’s a ride that I’m really happy with, and I couldn’t have changed anything on the day,” McKenzie said.
McKenzie doesn’t walk away from Dakar empty-handed. With his bronze medal result in the men’s road race and today’s top-four finish, he said he is proud to have delivered in the green and gold.
"I’d say I surprised myself a bit, but obviously I was confident and I knew I could get a good result, and I’m just glad it could all come together on both the days. It’s been a great experience, and just everything off the bike has been so good,” he said.
McKenzie said the opportunity to compete at the Youth Olympics has only made him more motivated to go to an Olympic Games, especially Brisbane 2032.
“I’d like to experience it again, hopefully in the real Olympics. I definitely want to come back,” he said.
“It’s been really inspiring and it’s something I want to do. It’s a lot different to a normal bike race. There’s a lot more going on, and it’s a lot more fun to be a part of.”
Apps raced her heart out in the women’s individual time trial to finish 12th overall.
“It was definitely a good race. It’s not my preferred but it was physically the best I’ve ever done it as well, so I couldn’t be more happy than what I am,” Apps said.
Apps is thrilled with her 2026 Youth Olympic campaign, leaving with a silver medal from the women’s road race two days ago and a career-best time today. Apps said she’s had an amazing time in Dakar and is grateful for all the support.
“It’s meant so much. All the support we’ve had has been crazy and it’s just such a good opportunity to be on the world stage and get to show everyone what we can do,” she said.
Words: Australian Olympic Committee
Feature picture: Will Palmer/OIS