The multi-faceted Australian cricketing legend seems to be at home behind a microphone or television camera today as he once was standing in front of the stumps some years ago. Now it seems Michael Slater has discovered a new passion where he can use his love of competition to push his limits.
Suffering from a rare form of spinal arthritis known as Ankylosing spondylitis that he has battled with since a young age, Slats says cycling is a great way to stay fit and minimise inflammation and pain in his spine.
Slats only recently pulled on a set of knicks and begun taking a more serious approach to his cycling since December 2015, here is what he told us in March this year…
How were you introduced to the sport of cycling?
I inherited my older brother’s road bike in my teens and it became my mode of transport for years in Wagga Wagga, but in terms of riding for fitness it started with a love for spin classes. I was eventually convinced to don the Lycra and buy a serious road bike!
Obviously a fan of most sports, what is a stand-out factor that has drawn you toward cycling?
I was drawn to it for fitness. As a long term Ankylosing spondylitis sufferer, cycling is a much better option than running.
Prior to cricket, hockey was something you were also talented at, had you tried cycling as well?
I rode a bike as any normal country child did and used it to commute around Wagga Wagga.
Any chance of getting Tubby Taylor on the bike?
I’ve actually had a number of rides with Tubby (hired hotel bikes) in Adelaide and Perth over the years but getting him in Lycra on a serious road bike would be next to IMPOSSIBLE! In fact, I’m not sure if 120psi will suffice!
What benefits do you find cycling brings?
– The freedom and fresh air
– Overall fitness and weight management
– The camaraderie among cyclists and team element when riding in a group
– I love all the gear! Strava and my Garmin are my new best friends!
What similarities if any do you see between cricket and cycling in terms of training and strategising?
– I find it hard not to take my competitive approach to cycling
– Similar focus and commitment to improve
– Working in a team
How has your cricketing career helped you to train and prepare for events/rides?
I think it’s helping to goal set and slowly build the length of rides each week, hopefully building to the 160km required for The Bowral Classic.
Since retiring from cricket have you created any personal fitness goals? Are there some you might be able to achieve through cycling?
My main goal has been to remain as fit as possible so I can be an active dad for as long as possible. Problem is I’m finding this cycling caper completely addictive, so the Tour might be just around the corner! Not! But 1st stop… The Bowral Classic!
Have you taken part in any events like the Bowral Classic before?
Never. I’m freaking out about taking the whole peloton down!
Have you got a highlight from your time on the bike?
The first time I took down one of my mate’s (James ‘Contador’ Yaffa) Strava segments!
