THIS IS ME: Ben Kersten, Pro Racing Sunshine Coast

Ben Kersten is director of Pro Racing Sunshine Coast, the region's only international sporting team.

PRO RACING SUNSHINE COAST DIRECTOR BEN KERSTEN. Picture: Contributed

Ben Kersten is director of Pro Racing Sunshine Coast, the region's only international sporting team.

The team was founded in December 2017 by former professional cyclists Ben Kersten and Matt Wilson.

The program integrates high-performance, tertiary study and professional mentoring, from a single hub at the University of the Sunshine Coast.

1 Favourite time of day and why?

The morning. The mornings are the best on the Sunshine Coast. Because we're up so early here, I get to spend a few hours with my wife and son before we head off in our separate directions for the day. It is also the time to fit in an early morning ride or swim which can be magnificent up here with our climate.

2 What excites you?

Work - watching the academy evolve and be successful after all the hard work of the riders and staff. Also seeing the local community start to get behind us and being supported as their team.

Family - being a part of my wife and son's life as we constantly change, learn and grow together daily. Every day is a new milestone with a child and it's amazing.

Hobby - I'm obsessed by designing, renovating and making things at home and it's a great distraction away from work.

3 Favourite sport? Player or spectator?

Cycling. Both participating and spectating.

Cycling - 2007 Australian Track Cycling Championships @ Dunc Gray Velodrome .Ben Kersten wins the Mens Omnium , after his 3rd place in the 15km Points race Pic;Gregg Porteous. Picture: Gregg Porteous

4 Best childhood memory?

I remember spending most mornings, afternoons and weekends off at a BMX track or skate park with my friends doing tricks that scare the pants off me now.

It was crazy, fun and free time. Although it makes me wonder if that's why all my joints hurt now.

5 Where were you born?

Wollongong, NSW.

6 Where would you like to holiday?

I think it's time to go on a ski trip. So skiing in Japan would have to be my first choice.

I've been going to Japan a lot lately with the team and it just keeps getting better. It used to be the Sunshine Coast but we live here now.

7 Cats or dogs? Do you have a pet?

Dogs. We don't have a pet.

We have wanted a dog for a while but with my work and the travel needed, we are not home consistently enough to care for one properly.

8 Who are your heroes?

My parents and my late father-in-law Garth Proud.

9 Dream job?

Running a Cycling Academy on the Sunshine Coast ... second to that, I would be an architect.

10 What will you be doing in 10 years?

Still on the Sunshine Coast running a successful Australian Cycling Academy. Just older (hopefully fitter) and with more time on my hands to go riding.

11 What's the best thing about living on the Sunshine Coast?

Everyone up here is more health-conscious and really gets the most out of their day. I really love how much you can get done in a morning up here. It's a great time to be living/working up here also with a lot of innovative and creative business opportunities and developments taking place.