06 Jun 2008

A year ago even Michael Milton thought his Beijing dreams were over.

But today the skier-turned cyclist who has beaten cancer twice learned he will compete at the Paralympic Games in China.

'I am so excited,' said Milton from his home in Canberra.

Cycling Australia today advised the Australian Paralympic Committee
(APC) of their nominated cyclists. The final team will be announced by the APC following any appeals.

Milton is confident he will be on the plane come September.

'I've earned my place on the team and I'm looking forward to competing in Beijing.

'Less than twelve months ago I was so sick and everything, even life, was so uncertain. I was shattered that my dreams of being a summer Paralympian were over and this whole cancer thing was stretching out indefinitely before me.'

Milton was diagnosed with Oesophageal Cancer in July last year. He received chemotherapy and radiation treatment then had major surgery in September to remove his oesophagus and much of his stomach.

The treatment was successful and, a month later, Milton was back on his bike and, by January, had returned to full training. In February he competed in the Australian Track Cycling Championships and was officially back in the chase for a spot on the Australian team.

'Training to be a cyclist was tough from the start but the last six months have been really hard, not only for me but also my family. Much of the time I only had enough energy to train, eat and sleep and I was often sick,' Milton said.

Milton will spend much of July and August training with the Australian Paralympic Cycling Team and travel to Beijing ahead of the Paralympic Games which start on 6 September.

Milton paid tribute to the Australian Institute of Sport for their support.

‘The AIS has played a very crucial part in my recovery from Cancer last year to now qualifying for Beijing,’ Milton said.

‘Even if I would have liked to been seen a little less in Sports Med the support I have had from all the AIS has helped keep my spirits up through the tough times and I don't think I would be performing back on the bike now without that support.’

‘So thanks to everyone at the AIS.’