ON THE track Nicholas will ride in the 3km individual pursuit, the 1km time trail and the three rider team sprint over 250 metres.

On the road he will race in the 30km time trail and the 70km road race.

Nicholas said he was excited about the competition and really liked his chances of medalling the individual pursuit and the 30km road time trial.

"I have been waiting to compete and to do my best," he said.

Nicholas has had cerebral palsy since birth, but he has not allowed the disability to quash his drive and competitive spirit.

No stranger to the Paralympics, he competed at the 2012 games in London and said it was the event every athlete wanted to compete in.

Member of the Whitsunday Triathlon Club, Justin Knight-Grey, said Nicholas was an absolute inspiration as an athlete.

Nicholas' step-mother Jodie said she too was extremely proud of her step-son.

"He is very determined and dedicated to his sport. We are thrilled with him and couldn't be prouder," she said.

Even before taking any medals in Rio, Ms Nicholas said her step-son was a winner in her eyes.

But what would your reaction be if he stepped off the plane after the Games with a medal hanging from his neck the Whitsunday Coast Guardian asked?

"Is there another word for proud?" she said.

"We were there to see him race in London and are so proud to see him achieve something he has dreamed of for such a long time.

"If he comes home with a medal it is a bonus. He has already achieved so much, he is an elite athlete, he is one of the world's best in our eyes."

Nicholas said he had heard about athletes in Rio being robbed at gun point and was aware of the dangers but determined to be very careful when he arrived in South America next week. Ms Nicholas said the Paralympics committee had prepared the athletes and she had faithofficials would "keep him safe".