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Team N-Duro’s Nic Leary continued her rapid rise through the Mountainbike ranks to grab 25th at round of the World Cup, raced Sunday in Bromont, Quebec.

The 25yr old, in just her second World Cup (in what is also her first full season of MTB competition) displayed gritty determination to overcome treacherous conditions, and two final lap punctures to claim her first World Cup top 25. In doing so confirming her as a potential star in the making.

“After Mt Ste Anne last week, I was very focused heading into this race. I knew the course suited me, and I was determined to step it up another level.”

Once again battling a rear of the field start position, Leary rode a strong race to come back through the pack. “I was pretty fired up after the first lap. Some of the women were all over the show on the technical sections, and it frustrated me that we were losing so much time to the front.”

Leary soon made up for that, charging steadily forward and climbing as high as 22nd with a lap to go, her sights on a top 20 when disaster struck in the form of punctures. “I attacked a stream crossing a bit hard and flatted on the rocks. We got it fixed, but the repair didn’t last, and I ended up running ½ the last lap. Bit of a bummer really, but that’s racing,” said a philosophical Leary.

What the result highlighted what Leary’s supporters already knew. That the 25yr old has huge potential. Top 25 at World Cups don’t just happen, and to achieve that in just your first season is huge. The confidence Leary has gained will stand her in great stead for her next challenge; the World Championships in Canberra on September 5th.

“ My goal all along along has been a World Champs top 20. I know I can achieve that and more. So I can’t wait to get home get into the training. I’m excited!”