As debut World Championships go, Becky James’ stunning success in Minsk, where she earned two gold and two bronze medals takes some beating. The Welsh rider was in stunning form in Belarus and after plenty of hard work this season – including a six-week block on the Japanese keirin circuit – she claims she is ready for her double defence this time out. James’ scintillating performances in Minsk out-did even German powerhouse Kristina Vogel, and it is the in-form German police officer who is likely to be the biggest obstacle between James and more success this time out.
Vogel’s six gold medals, from two World Cup events, have marked her as clear favourite for a clean sweep of honours in Cali while Olympic champion Anna Meares is also back. Hong Kong’s Wai Sze Lee has also been a perennial contender at events this year. However, this could play into James’ hands – having been a virtual unknown outside of British Cycling this time last year, the Abergavenny-born rider is now a marked woman. But with Vogel favourite for honours again, the defending champion could well sneak a surprise this week. At the very least, podium places are certainly within her grasp.
