Having entered the 2012 UCI Para-cycling World Track Championships without much fanfare, Simone Kennedy produced one of the most remarkable international debuts in recent history. The Sydney-based track star stunned her competition in Los Angeles, winning gold medals in the 500m time trial and 3km individual pursuit, announcing herself as a track cycling star.  

It was perfect timing for the young Sydney-sider who soon after arrived at her first Paralympic Games full of confidence. The confidence and hard training paid off and Simone won silver in the 3km individual pursuit.

While it appeared her quick success at the international level had come from nowhere, the result was actually a product of years of gruelling training. Following a regime set by dual Paralympic gold medallist Peter Brooks as part of the Parramatta Junior Development Program, it took Simone three years to notch up world beating speed. Initially struggling to ride a track bike, Simone credits regular training and road racing with able-bodied riders for her significant improvement together with motorbike pacing on the track.

Simone ramped up her preparations in 2011, routinely performing 4km sets of hill repeats in training, all while her mum or dad drove behind in their car. That year she won gold in the 500m time trial and bronze in the 3km individual pursuit at the National Championships, as well as completing her final year of school.

Away from the demands of cycling, Simone enjoys eating, sleeping and spending time with family and friends. She has a special fondness for reading sporting autobiographies, particularly her role model Anna Meares’ book and has recently started a degree in sports coaching and administration.