Nicole's tenacity is rewarded

HOT WHEELS: Timaru's world champion speedskater Nicole Begg keeps pace with her new Cerato, supplied by Kia New Zealand, after Timaru's Bob Driver backed her ability.

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When Bob Driver saw world champion speed-skater Nicole Begg race against the boys on a bicycle he decided he would like to help her out.

Nicole was racing at Timaru Cycling's annual Boxing Day criterium last year. He decided she was worth investing in in some form.

The dealership owner for Kia cars in Timaru, Bob wondered if Kia New Zealand could be interested in helping out.

He mentioned it at a national sales meeting, but then forgot to follow it up and Nicole disappeared back to Europe.

An article in the Herald prompted Bob into action and a quick 30-second phone call to head office turned into a bonus for the world champion.

Nicole is now driving the latest model diesel-powered Cerato and the good news is Kia may also supply her with one in Europe.

Bob said he was impressed at Nicole's tenacity and ability to beat the odds -- all on a shoestring budget.

"She talks really well and works hard -- the ideal person to be associated with.

"Skating is also big in Korea and Kia New Zealand also saw the benefits of backing a world champion."

Bob was also impressed with the way Nicole sold herself and the ideas she put to him that would benefit both Kia and herself.

"Hopefully it will also help lift her profile."

Bob didn't even mind adding a towbar so Nicole could put her racing bike on the back.

"It's a case of a lot of people can't do big things, but little things help her out -- like Staniford and Associates have donated the insurance for the car, and I hope to get her a better bike to race with."

Nicole said she was delighted to have a sponsor and one that was not directly related to skating.

"Kia is a well-known brand so I've got to thank Bob, he's a really generous guy for working on my behalf."

Nicole said the only thing she had to get used to was seeing herself on the car.

"It's quite weird seeing myself go past when we are out cycling, when mum or dad goes past."