Dunsborough’s Chloe Collis has been proving her speed and skills on WA’s mountain bike trails in recent months as she competes in this year’s WA Gravity Enduro State Series.

The downhill daredevil’s love for the sport has led to a string of top-two finishes in the competition, which started in March.

An ongoing passion for mountain biking is made up of multiple factors for Collis.

“For me, it’s the enjoyment I get of racing with family and friends, travelling around WA, and the accomplishment of doing features on trails that challenge myself,” she said.

Collis’ journey in the demanding downhill discipline has presented many challenges, with the second year South West Academy of Sport athlete displaying resilience in the face of adversity.

“Injury has affected my performance quite heavily,” she said.

“My left ulnar nerve was entrapped along the cubical tunnel in my left elbow, leaving me with pain along my arm and a loss of grip strength.”

Despite the setbacks, Collis maintains a positive outlook on her sporting endeavours.

“I don’t focus or become frustrated on the symptoms but accept it’s something I have to deal with, and work towards doing the best I can,” she said.

Collis is appreciative of the support she has received in her journey so far, praising the opportunities as a SWAS athlete.

“SWAS is helping myself as an athlete in a range of incredible ways,” she said.

“They provide support for myself to ensure I’m able to access opportunities to educate myself as an athlete.”

After a busy schedule already this year, Collis looks forward to continuing her drive of achieving personal goals.

She has set her sights on winning the State Series and placing at the Australian National Championships in October.

Written by: Lowen Ferry

Picture: SWB Photography – Sports Photography