Strathpeffer cyclist Fin Graham goes close to world record on his way to sealing gold medal match up in individual pursuit at World Cycling Championships in Glasgow

The World Cycling Championships only officially begin today, but Strathpeffer rider Fin Graham has already guaranteed himself at least one silver medal.

Even before the event launched, qualifying for the individual pursuit took place throughout Wednesday, marking Graham’s first time on the track at the 2023 championships.

Defending his gold medal in the event last year, 23-year-old Graham was able to maintain his strong start to finish at the top of the rankings, sending him into the gold medal pursuit where he will face fellow Team GB athlete Jaco van Gass – the reigning Olympic champion.

In Tokyo, it was again van Gass and Graham vying for the gold, with Graham initially breaking the world record only to see van Gass go even faster just minutes later.

This time around in Glasgow, Graham had the advantage in qualifying over van Gass by nearly three and-a-half seconds, but Graham will take nothing for granted in the final knowing what van Gass is capable of.

The individual pursuit finals will take place on Sunday evening, but Graham is busy before then.

On the agenda tomorrow is qualifying – and hopefully a final – in the 1km time trial, then on Saturday his focus will turn to the scratch race.

Before the weekend is over, he will also compete in a 200m time trial and individual pursuit final double header on Sunday.

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