The Amy Gillett Foundation Scholarship is ready to pass the baton to its next talented and aspiring female cyclist, with this week’s announcement that 2010 submissions are now open.

Now in its fifth consecutive year, the scholarship is a joint initiative between the AGF and Cycling Australia-AIS High Performance Program.

Since receiving the 2009 scholarship, 30 year old Amber Halliday has blazed a trail of success.  During her 12-month tenure, Halliday has won major events in the Australasian cycling calendar, including the 2009 Tour of New Zealand and the 2010 Australian Time Trial Championship. 

The scholarship has built an enviable reputation and legacy that belies its five years, with past recipients entering into full AIS scholarships, going on to ride professionally for teams in Europe and amassing numerous cycling championships. 

This year’s recipient will be extended every opportunity to continue the legacy of past recipients, and is expected to join Australia’s AIS High Performance Program overseas to compete internationally before ultimately launching her cycling career. 

Amy Gillett Foundation CEO Tony Fox explains that cycling ability is however, not the exclusive determining factor when selecting a scholarship recipient.

“Although the scholarship focuses on enhancing and realising the female’s cycling abilities, it also places a healthy regard on furthering education and broad life skills,” said Fox.

The dual emphasis on work and learning reflects the qualities successfully pursued by elite cyclist Amy Gillett before she was killed whilst on a training ride in Germany in 2005. The scholarship honours the memory of Amy by supporting young female cyclists who share her sporting and life goals.

Cycling Australia CEO Graham Fredericks acknowledges the opportunity for Australia’s talented young women cyclists.

“The scholarship provides a unique opportunity for both elite cycling and career development for the successful young cyclist. It also contributes to underpinning Australia’s position at the pinnacle of international women’s road cycling by providing another pathway to the AIS and national representation,” he said.

In addition to supporting a talented female cyclist each year, the Amy Gillett Foundation aims to promote mutual awareness and understanding between cyclists and motorists on Australian roads.
Scholarship support includes:

• A position to race internationally with the AIS women’s team; includes financial assistance with travel, accommodation and expenses while competing overseas with the team
• A road bike for training and competition
• Eye wear products courtesy of Oakley
• Assistance with entry fees and insurance when competing nationally and internationally
• Oversight of training by national coaches
• Access to AIS clinical services during training camps at the AIS

Selection criteria and application forms are now available at http://www.amygillett.org.au/amy-gillett-scholarship.
The closing date for all applications is Friday 5 March, 2010