The first-ever national team for cycling was announced on Thursday by Bike Samoa Federation.

The team is made up of seven men and five women selected from the results of the 2024 National Championship Races held two weeks ago.

"It's an important part of developing the sport," explained BSF President Leniu Philip Moore.

"Previously cyclists living overseas were being sent to represent Samoa at international races, but without a proper selection process. No National trials, and no consistent training programs. But as the new governing body, we are committed to growing cycling here and getting more of our people on bikes."

All the athletes on the national team are local cyclists, ranging from seasoned riders like 53-year-old Darren Young who took the gold medal in the 20km race, to those who are new to the sport like 17-year-old sprint cyclist Lawrence Palepoi who won the 10km event.

The team is led by 46-year-old, Falea'ana Wolly Collins,  arguably Samoa's best cyclist and brings a wealth of experience to help guide the team as they begin their preparations for the 2027 Pacific Games in Tahiti.

The first step in that preparation is the Taupo NZ Cycle Challenge in November.

The winners of the 60km Road Race, 17-year-old Tyreece Collins and 19-year-old Urlin Mulitalo are being sponsored by the Federation for the event in New Zealand. Several other BSF cyclists are self-funding to enter either the 160km or the 55km event.

2024 Cycling National Team:

Men - Tyreece Collins, Falea'ana Wolly Collins, Darren Young, Filipo Mulitalo, Lawrence Palepoi, Sam Nimarota, Gideon Mulitalo

Women - Urlin Mulitalo, Manamea Schwalger, Alethea Schwalger, Fanaafi Ioane, Merenaite Lelevaga