Aussie Cyclist Grace Brown Claims Gold in Paris and Receives Unexpected Keepsake

Australian cycling superstar Grace Brown has been basking in a wave of “gold” ever since her remarkable victory at the Paris Olympics, where she not only secured a gold medal but also took home a bike gleaming in gold.

The athlete, who brought home Australia’s first gold medal from Paris 2024, joined the Nine desk at the Australian Open on Wednesday morning to reflect on her outstanding achievement.

When host Tony Jones inquired about her connection to the bike that propelled her to success in the women’s individual time trial, the spotlight shifted to her dazzling two-wheeled trophy.

“As a keepsake from that race, I received a bike painted gold, and now it proudly resides in my home,” Brown shared, having completed a series of races post-Games before announcing her retirement from professional cycling.

“It’s truly special. It’s essentially set up like my Olympic race bike but with that added touch of bling.”

In August, Lapierre, a bike manufacturer from France, showcased a stunning gold-coloured bike crafted specifically for Brown, named the “Lapierre Aerostorm.”

“Engineered for an Olympic champion, ready for @letourfemmes [Tour de France Femmes],” Lapierre announced on their social media.

Unfortunately, during the demanding third stage of the Tour de France Femmes, Brown’s golden bike encountered a puncture, leading her to finish 27th in the overall standings.

Despite this setback, the bike will undoubtedly remain a shining testament to her extraordinary Paris experience, proudly displayed at her home.

“It still feels a bit surreal,” she reflected on her Olympic gold win.

“Even now, I get goosebumps whenever I watch the footage again, and it’s hard to fathom that it was me out there, especially now that I’m not drenched in the Paris rain.”