Name: Luke Pledger
Nationality: Australian
What is your passion and how did you get into it?
My passion is cycling! I started cycling at a young age, gradually increasing my confidence and ability. Cycling proved to be beneficial for my independence and also great training for water skiing, a sport I was also heavily involved in from a young age.
From the age of 10, I competed throughout Australia, winning titles and major events. My success made me eligible to represent my State and Nation both within Australia and internationally. At the age of 22, after suffering from re-occurring injuries, I decided to focus my athletic abilities on the cycling arena. I’ve never looked back!
After consistently wining local cycling club races, I began competing in the National Road series in the Elite rider category. My racing highlights include:
– 2nd place at the Bay 2 Bay Classic in Victoria (2005)
– Top 20 GC at my first attempt at the tour of Sunraysia, one of Australia’s premier tours (2005) and returning the next year to finish in the top 15 GC
– Fastest time at the Wal Smith memorial 2006,
– Finishing 24th in the Elite men’s Australian road championships in (2006 – 07)
Moving to Dubai at the end of 2007 subsequently put an end to my racing ambitions in Australia. Thanks to Adventure HQ and their incorporation of Team BMC UAE to the UAE cycle federation, I’m now overjoyed at this chance to rub shoulders in a competitive peleton again.
Where and how do you usually practice it in the UAE?
With a full season of races ahead, I contacted my coach from Australia in August 2011. He is committed to sending me monthly training programs, with the aim of peaking for priority races. I train every day and average 2 -3 hours per day, with longer training sessions on the weekend. There are some great cycling routes in Dubai, particularly in the Hatta Hills. Most of my training takes place around the Nad Al Sheba and Accedemic City areas.
Do you have any specific tips & tricks for this?
To be a good competitive cyclist you need to spend a lot of time on your bike! For those who lead a busy life and lack time, the best option is to contact an accredited cycle coach who will recommend a training program, including different intervals and exercises that will maximise available time.
What is your next planned adventure?
My next race with Team BMC UAE will be held on UAE National Day, the *2nd of December 2011.
What would you recommend our readers if they wanted to get into what you do? 
Firstly, make sure you have the right cycling gear and a quality bike that fits you correctly. Adventure HQ at Times Square Center has a great range of cycling equipment and accessories, as well as a bike workshop to keep your wheels in motion.
You should also contact the UAE cycle federation to arrange a racing license. To race in the federation a fairly high standard of cycling is needed.
If you would prefer to enjoy the sport for recreation rather than at a competitive level, contact your local bike shop or Cycle Safe Dubai who will point you in the right direction for some fantastic group training sessions.
*published in December 2011
