What a difference a year makes. Twelve months ago, Jasmin Glaesser was a highly competitive cyclist who was waiting for her citizenship papers.

Born in Germany, the longtime Coquitlam resident had been competing with the best in Canada but was unable to represent her home nation.

When she officially became a citizen in the summer of 2011, Glaesser immediately shot to the top of the Canadian future Olympians' list.

Just a few months later, strike 'future' from the title - after she helped Canada capture its spot in the track team pursuit category.

That mercurial rise should serve as a warning to riders from other nations - don't underestimate this Canuck.

"I'm a naturally competitive person and to know you're close to the world's best and in position to be that close to the medals, is incredible," Glaesser told The NOW earlier this summer.

The Terry Fox Secondary grad and Simon Fraser University computer science student turned to cycling just a few years ago when repetitive injuries from long distance running put her on the sidelines.

Cycling became a way to keep up her training - and quickly supplanted the running.

"Since then I've had my ups and downs, but I've learned so much from (international) competition," said Glaesser. "I come in prepared and focused and able to succeed in this environment."

On two wheels, the 19-year-old cyclist has demonstrated plenty of versatility: producing strong results in both track and road racing. While her focus now is on the track, don't ask her to choose.

"In competition I'm always trying to do one better, I'm always trying to win, whether it's feasible or not."

WHEN: Aug. 2, team sprints; Aug. 3 team pursuit.

FOLLOW on Twitter: @jasminglaesser