CHIEF Minister Allan Bell MHK has congratulated Isle of Man cyclists Peter Kennaugh and Ben Swift on their success at the 2012 Track Cycling World Championships.
Kennaugh played a key role in helping Great Britain strike gold in the men’s team pursuit at the Hisene Arena in Melbourne.
The 22-year-old Manxman combined with Ed Clancy, Steven Burke and Geraint Thomas to claim victory ahead of Australia in a new world record time.
There was further success for the Isle of Man when Onchan resident Swift produced a powerful finish to win the 15km scratch race.
The Chief Minister said: ‘I would like to add my congratulations to Peter and Ben on their outstanding achievements in Australia this week. To have two more world champions demonstrates the amazing depth of sporting talent we have in the Isle of Man, particularly in cycling.’
He added: ‘As a nation we work hard to create an environment that nurtures talent and enables our young people to flourish. This latest success provides further evidence that people from a small country such as the Isle of Man can succeed on the international stage if they have the ability, commitment and support. Like Mark Cavendish, I’m sure Peter and Ben will be an inspiration to future generations of Manx sportsmen and women.’
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