Like two prize-fighters who beat up on each other in the boxing ring only to embrace in a sign of mutual respect at the final bell, top local cyclists Julia Hawley and Melanie Claude share something of an odd-couple relationship.

As the two riders continue in their efforts to satisfy Bermuda Olympic Association that they should represent the Island at next year's Commonwealth Games in Manchester, England, it might appear to many observers somewhat strange that the married mothers, renowned to be fiercely competitive against any opposition including each other, actually train as a team to help realise their dreams.

Hawley puts it into perspective when she explains: "It's great because we have different strengths and weaknesses, so we can work on our weaknesses. It also helps when one person isn't having a good training day - on these days it sure helps you get through the workout when you have a training companion.

"I have gained strength in the shorter power bursts whereas Mel is very strong."

Her competitive nature is evident when Claude says: "The best training partner is someone who is at your level or slightly higher. Julia and I motivate and push each other. Neither one of us will slacken off to risk falling behind. That's what makes us a great match."

The pair have already established themselves as a force to be reckoned over the past couple of years against the top local male riders.

Claude finished this season third overall in the road race points series and both women have travelled tens of thousands of miles to race against some of the top women cyclists in France, Spain, China, Canada, Britain, USA, South America and Aruba, building up an impressive resume of results and gaining valuable experience in a sport that demands considerable physical and mental strength.

Both women get up at 4.30 a.m. six days a week to train for two hours with their coach Greg Hopkins with up to four hour rides or racing on Sundays.

Coupled with busy home lives - Claude has three young children and Hawley two - and with full-time professions as well - Hawley is Senior Manager in Fund Treasury at Fidelity Investments and Claude an Office Manager at Sovereign Risk Investments - a strict regimented lifestyle, making considerable sacrifices, is called for.

Claude gives credit to others when discussing the source of her motivation. "It doesn't take much to motivate me. I love the sport and have a competitive heart. I am inspired by other athletes both locally and overseas. The support I receive from family members, co-workers, the community, is another driving force.

"It's not easy competing at the level I do, maintaining a full-time career, and raising a family but that's what makes my life all the more interesting."

Representing Bermuda not only motivates Hawley but gives her a great sense of pride. "It's a tremendous honour representing Bermuda. Really, it is such a great feeling when you go away and represent your country. I feel so proud to represent my country and in all my travels people seem so excited when they see a country like Bermuda with a cyclist in the race!" she said.

As the two women continue to make their mark in the cycling world, those that know them are confident that they will give every last ounce of effort to make sure they are on the start line in Manchester next year.

National coach Hopkins said: "Julia and Melanie are both extremely dedicated and focused. They are meticulous in their preparation for competition and give 110 percent. They have already shown they are able to ride at the level needed for Commonwealth, and I believe their performances in 200002 will see them qualify."

"To me going to the Commonwealth Games is like going to the Olympics," says Claude. "Besides the thrill of going to the Games it would be a great accomplishment for me. Not to mention the fact there have never been any women cyclists from Bermuda who have gone to the Commonwealth Games. So I would like to change that trend and I know my team-mate would like to do the same."

Last weekend in Aruba, they narrowly missed reaching the Bermuda Bicycle Association standard for a 30 kilometre time trial, but have both recorded some impressive road race results.

If dedication, hard work and driving desire have anything to do with it, then Bermuda should see their first women cyclists at the Games in Manchester next year.