And that she did.

The 16-year-old stood out from the crowd to be selected for a three-month trial in an elite Australian Sports Commission and NSW Institute of Sport coaching squad last week.

``I had to go to Bass Hill Velodrome and undergo numerous tests,'' said Micaela, a member of Penrith Panthers Cycling Club. ``There was so much competition so I didn't think I would get selected.''

Her selection is an incredible feat considering she only began racing on the track two years ago. The squad, which will train twice a week, is designed for young athletes who show the potential and talent to compete at future Olympics and World Championships.

Confirming the squad's high prestige, it will be coached by former world sprint champion Sean Eadie.

``It's a good opportunity and I'm really excited,'' she said.

``My main event in the velodrome is the 200-metre sprint because it's short and uses more explosive power.

``That's the type of competition I enjoy and that's the type of competition this squad focuses on.''

That doesn't mean Micaela lacks the versatility to endure long distance events. With a five-year background in mountain biking, she has competed in races which were no shorter than 70kilometres.

The Blaxland High School student trains six days a week, up to four hours each day, at the Western Sydney Academy of Sport.

``The hardest part is waking up extremely early to train,'' Micaela said. ``So I make short-term goals to keep myself focused and motivated.''

One of these is to dominate at the state titles later this month.

``Competitors who place are chosen to travel with the NSW team to national events,'' she said.

``They compete all over Australia, so I hope I do well,''