An independent report into Cycling New Zealand’s high performance model questions whether the programme is fit for purpose suggesting it needs to be reimagined.
The independent review led by Michael Heron QC and Professor Sarah Leberman was set up in the wake of the death of Christchurch representative cyclist Olivia Podmore last August.
Heron and Leberman were joined at the media briefing by Cycling NZ board chairman Phil Holden and HPSNZ chief executive Raelene Castle.
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The 104-page report was publicly released this afternoon.
It followed a 2018 review which highlighted a culture of bullying, poor behaviour and dysfunctional high performance programme.
While acknowledging changes, the latest report said further improvement – particularly in the area of athlete wellbeing – was needed.
The report also highlighted distrust between Cycling NZ and High Performance Sport New Zealand.
The results of the Cycling NZ review being revealed. On the panel are Cycling NZ board chairman Phil Holden, Professor Sarah Leberman, Michael Heron QC and HPSNZ chief executive Raelene Castle.
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Cycling NZ chair Phil Holden described the report as “forthright” and showed urgent change was needed.
HPSNZ chief executive Raelene Castle said wellbeing and performance were not mutually exclusive and the organisation had made moves towards system-wide change.
Three high profile employees at Cycling NZ have quit in the last few months.
Podmore’s family have received an early copy of the review.
Olivia Podmore was a New Zealand representative cyclist.
Photo: Photosport Ltd
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