Australia’s track cyclists have turned adversity into triumph, achieving an impressive performance at the Commonwealth Games. Georgia Baker earned the honor of carrying the flag at the closing ceremony, a moment she learned about from team chef de mission Petria Thomas after finishing runner-up to teammate Alyssa Polites in the women’s elimination race.

Baker's journey was marked by illness just before the Games, while Polites faced her own struggles, contemplating retirement due to health issues. Together, they formed a crucial part of the women’s track endurance group, which previously won the team pursuit in Glasgow and is now eyeing the Los Angeles Olympics with renewed confidence.

On day four of cycling events, Leigh Hoffman set a Games-record time in the 1km time trial. He joined the ranks of Australian cycling legends with his three gold and one silver, becoming the first Australian cyclist to win four medals at a Commonwealth Games.

Tara Neyland secured her second gold in the women’s C4-C5 1km time trial, while Erin Normoyle added a bronze. In the final event of the Games, Oli Bleddyn clinched silver in the men’s points race, and Kristina Clonan took bronze in the women’s keirin.

Overall, Australia dominated the medal tally, winning 171 medals, including 70 gold, far surpassing England, which secured a distant second with 29 gold and 110 medals. The Australian cycling team contributed significantly with 10 gold and 28 total medals.

Thomas highlighted the respect Baker commands within the team, noting the emotional reactions from Polites and Sophie Edwards when Baker was named flag bearer. Baker expressed gratitude towards her teammates, stating, "Alyssa’s worked so hard for me this week - it’s the least I can do, to repay the favour."

Reflecting on her achievements, Baker described the moment as surreal, saying, "I’m just really proud, one of the biggest honors of my career." Polites echoed this sentiment, revealing that her teammates played a crucial role in her comeback from illness, stating, "I thought I was going to quit. These girls kept me on the pedals."

Hoffman, after his record-breaking performance, remarked on the intensity of the event, saying, "You don’t feel human. My legs are still burning ... 58 seconds of pure pain."