Redland Bay's Des'ree Barnes is in Europe representing Australia at the 2014 UCI BMX World Championships in Rotterdam, which are now under way.
Des'ree, who rides for Beenleigh BMX club, is one of five Australians in the challenger class looking to defend the world titles they won in New Zealand last year.
Joining her in the team is 2012 London Olympic silver medallist Sam Willoughby and defending women's elite world champion Caroline Buchanan.
The 11-year-old has been in exciting form already this season, having won the 2014 BMX national championships earlier in the year, and is using every resource at her disposal in Rotterdam.
"My preparation has been really good," Des'ree said.
"My coach Brad has been training me in the gym to build my strength.
"Thanks to BMX Queensland, I have been able to use the Sleeman Sports Complex track every week, which is challenging and allows me to practice using a Pro Gate; the same starting gate used at the world's."
Des'ree highlighted, in no uncertain terms, what she will be aiming to achieve overseas.
"My goal is to become the world number one again," she said.
While she admitted being excited about the prospect of returning as a defending champion, she conceded that the competition would be stronger this year.
"It's exciting to return as the defending champion," she said.
"However, I know how tough it will be because there will be more riders in Europe than there was in New Zealand."
Regardless of the result, Des'ree says representing Australia is a victory within itself.
"I am very excited to be representing Australia again this year," she said.
