LSS nominee Daniel Samuel on track for success despite injury

Daniel Samuel is a 16-year-old cyclist who has already tasted the lows of his sport but is already on track for more success both on and off the track.

Daniel Samuel has the will and determination to succeed at the highest level. Picture: Carmela Roche

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Daniel Samuel loves the thrills of BMX riding but is also a crack track cyclist combining both his loves to race among the top juniors in NSW and Australia.

If not for a nasty ankle injury — which sidelined him for six months — the 16-year-old Bankstown Sports Cycling Club member would have competed in two junior world BMX championships in 2018 and 2019.

Daniel is not bitter about missing out and has used the time to branch out as an enterpeneur with his own clothing line, Young Offenders.

Daniel Samuel models his own clothes. Picture: Carmela Roche)

Daniel is this week’s nominee for the Inspiration category in the Local Sports Star Awards.

“It was quite sad to miss out on two world championships but having family and friends who cared for me and showed me the positives helped me to get through it,” Daniel said.

The 2017 ACT Under 14 boys and cruiser event champion had a plate and 12 screws inserted in his right ankle after the 2018 injury which happened while he was competing with friends.

“I have gone back training and am looking forward to competing at the BMX state titles in eight weeks time,” said Daniel, who finished seventh in the 2018 Australian titles.

He also took up track racing and competed in the 2019 Nationals where he finished outside the top 10.

Daniel Samuel is training again after his ankle injury. Picture: Carmela Roche

“I love BMX because I get a big thrill and a huge adrenalin rush but also love track cycling,” the Concorde High School student said.

“My goal is to represent Australia in both events at the world titles and Olympics.

“My hero (multiple Olympic medallist) Anna Meares started as a BMX rider.”

His father Nader said Daniel has been through a lot after his injury but praises his son for staying strong and positive.

“Daniel hasn’t completely recovered from the injury but is very brave,” he said. “It has been a tough time for him missing out on the world championships but we have all been there for him.”

Daniel’s foray into his clothing business began because it was a way of supporting himself because he had no time for a job.

“It’s going fine and I have four products for sale, which I designed myself,” said Daniel, who represents his school in swimming.

IN OTHER NEWS

Local Sports Stars is proudly sponsored by Featherdale Wildlife Park and Bankstown Sports.

LSS categories include Inspiration, Team of Excellence and Service to Sport.

■ Nominate a young athlete at localsportsstars.com.au/newslocal. The nominations close at the end of the month.