Team Australia rider Anna Meares has expressed her belief that legendary cyclist Kathy Watt will be "proud" of her achievements in the velodrome.
Meares overtook Watt as the most successful female track cyclist in Australia's history this evening courtesy of a fifth Commonwealth Games gold medal, picking up the top prize in the 500m time trial.
Watt was an idol to Meares when growing up, and the 30-year-old believes that there is a nice symmetry to her achievement of toppling the record at the Sir Chris Hoy Velodrome.
"How nice a circle to, 20 years ago, be inspired by her to start cycling and now [beat] her representations and tally of gold medals tonight. I'm sure she'll be very proud," she told reporters.
Meares picked up the gold medal in style, beating compatriot Stephanie Morton and England's Jess Varnish courtesy of a Commonwealth Games record time of 33.435s.
"I really wanted to go sub 33.5s. I wasn't sure how fast this track would be, but I knew the boys went fast this morning so I was quite eager," she added.
The victory and record caps a dream 24 hours for the four-time world champion after she was also the flag bearer for Australia in the opening ceremony, and she admitted that the events would live long in the memory.
"I think there are definitely some snapshots that will stay in my mind forever, and there may be some photos going up on the wall at home," she added.
"I think last night, separate to this ride will definitely be one of the biggest highlights of my career."
Meares has now won the 500m time trial in each of the last three Commonwealth Games.
Barney Corkhill
