The Australian Cycling Team is pleased to announce the appointment of Rory Sutherland to the new position of Elite Road Coordinator, a part-time role based in Europe.  

Sutherland announced his retirement from racing last month, bringing an end to a professional career which spanned nearly twenty years on the UCI World Tour.  

Riding for professional teams including Rabobank, UnitedHealthcare, Saxo-Bank, Movistar, UAE Team Emirates, and most recently Israel Start-Up Nation, Sutherland was one of the most valued domestiques in the peloton.  

Based in Europe, Sutherland will work closely with Australia’s professional riders, prioritising Australian Cycling Team Individual Athlete Performance Support (IAPS) members.  

Sutherland will co-ordinate and provide technical direction to IAPS members, and assist identified National Team Road athletes as they prepare for elite international competition; with a focus on winning at the Olympic Games, World Championships, and Commonwealth Games. 

The Elite Road Coordinator will provide a conduit between Australian professional riders, their key support, professional teams and management and performance support staff.  

The role will require a combination of leadership and implementation of support to deliver world-leading outcomes through effective performance planning, athlete development, and evidence-based technical Australian Cycling Team programs for both women’s and men’s road events. 

QUOTES 

Rory Sutherland, Elite Road Coordinator

I am immensely proud to be joining Australian Cycling Team as Elite Road Coordinator. My new role will allow me to give back to the sport and program that showed me so much support the past twenty years and I look forward to working with everyone as Australia continues to reach new heights in cycling.  

Simon Jones, Performance Director, Australian Cycling Team  
​
With two decades of international experience, we believe Rory has a tremendous amount of knowledge and practical experience to bring to the team, and we are excited to be working with him. Rory’s focus in the short term will be to focus on maximising our medal chances for Tokyo and secondly contributing to our longer-term plans to sustain road success at major championships in the future. 

​The Australian Cycling Team is pleased to announce the BMX Freestyle Athlete Memberships for 2020/2021. 

The three athletes who will receive memberships are reigning world champion Brandon Loupos, 2017 world champion Logan Martin, and women's world number six Natalya Diehm. 

Sydney's Brandon Loupos enjoyed a stunning 2019 season highlighted by winning his maiden rainbow jersey, in addition to recording the highest score ever recorded at a World Cup.  Brandon won the highest prize purse in BMX Freestyle at the Japan event early 2020. 

Gold Coast's Logan Martin, dual 2019 X Games gold and Urban Games gold, a two-time FISE World Series champion (2015 and 2016), claimed the inaugural BMX Freestyle world title at the 2017 UCI Urban World Championships before taking silver behind Loupos in 2019.   

After turning pro in 2018, Brisbane's Diehm has enjoyed a rapid rise, firstly winning the 2019 Vans BMX Pro Cup which featured events in the USA, Australia, Germany and Mexico before finishing sixth during her Australian Team debut at the 2019 Urban World Championships. In 2019, she also added an Oceania and National title to her resume.  

With the 2020 season cancelled due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, the trio returned to Australia where they continue to prepare for the Tokyo Olympic Games at the newly built BMX Freestyle Indoor Training Facility on the Gold Coast. 

The trio will contest the 2021 AusCycling BMX Freestyle National Championships to be held at Beenleigh in Brisbane on December 12 where Martin and Diehm will aim to defend their titles. 
​
Australian Cycling Team BMX Freestyle Athlete Memberships 2020/2021 

• Brandon Loupos, 27, NSW, Podium 
• Logan Martin, 27, QLD, Podium 
• Natalya Diehm, 23, QLD, Podium Ready 

2019 world champion Stephanie Morton OAM, 29, has announced her immediate retirement from international cycling after a ten-year international career which spanned both able-bodied and para-cycling disciplines. 

One of the world's fastest for nearly a decade, Morton's impressive resume boasts the 2019 team sprint world title with Kaarle McCulloch, seven World Championship medals, four Commonwealth Games gold medals, thirteen national titles and stunningly, three Paralympic world titles and Paralympic Games gold.    

As a strong medal chance in the three Tokyo Olympic Games track sprint events, including one of the team sprint gold medal favourites, the decision to hang up her bike eight months out of the rescheduled Games did not come lightly for Morton. 
 
“It was not a decision I have taken lightly, and thankfully I had the support of the Australian Cycling Team throughout the whole process, along with my family and close friends," said Morton. 

“No one could have prepared for what 2020 delivered, hence why this decision has been eight months in the making as I needed to really consider what was best for me moving forward, and it has probably been the toughest thing I've ever had to do.  

“But even before the COVID-19 pandemic hit and it moved the Games' date, I had always said that the Tokyo Games wasn't going to define me, win or lose. 

“In an ideal world, it would have been nice to go out one more time wearing green gold, but we aren't in an ideal world anymore.  

“I feel like if we have gone through a global pandemic and the worst that happens to me is I miss a bike race, then I'm doing ok."

Beginning her cycling journey in 2005 at the age of 15 with South Coast Cycling Club in Adelaide, Morton impressed both on a state and national level as a teenager.  

At twenty in 2010, Morton took on the role as Tandem Pilot for visually impaired cyclist Felicity Johnson, with the combination winning three world titles across 2011 and 2012, followed by gold at the London 2012 Paralympic Games. In 2013, the pair were awarded the Order of Australia (OAM) Medal for service to the sport.  

After the 2012 Paralympic Games, Morton switched her sole focus to the single bike and individual success immediately followed with a triple national title haul in 2013 gaining her a maiden elite World Championship selection.  

Over the next three years, Morton amassed a further seven top-eight places before breaking onto the World Championship podium in 2017 where she claimed dual silver in the individual sprint, the first of three consecutive silver medals in the event.  

In the team sprint event, Morton enjoyed early success with Meares, before winning World Championship silver in 2017 with Kaarle McCulloch. The pair went to break the Australian record on multiple occasions over the next few seasons, before setting their existing mark during their 2019 World Championship winning campaign in Poland.   

At the Commonwealth Games, Morton claimed four gold across two campaigns, firstly at the Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games where she defeated long-time idol Anna Meares to win gold in the sprint. On home soil in 2018 on the Gold Coast, Morton dazzled with a triple gold medal haul.   

Morton's Olympic debut came in Rio 2016 where she teamed with Anna Meares in the team sprint where they finished fourth. Morton also claimed two 13th place finishes in the women's keirin and individual sprint. 

“I have had such an amazing career.  

“The past fifteen years has left me with a lot of favourite moments.  

“I think winning three gold medals in front of a home crowd at the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games would have to be up there, along with becoming world champion with Karlz in 2019”. 

Morton will now turn her attention to her post-racing career having studied a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice in parallel with her international cycling career.  
​
“I have always had a plan for after cycling. You have to. I made sure I was studying so that when the time came to enter the "real world" I would hit the ground running.  

“The bike has given me a lot of achievements but cycling and being an elite athlete has given me the ability push myself and always strive to be the best version of me, and to me, that's a huge achievement I can take with me into my new life. I start my new career next month, and I'm really looking forward to taking the skills I've obtained as an athlete with me into the workforce”.  

A selfless person on and off the bike, Morton quickly thanked all those who played a part in her sensational career.   

“It takes an absolute army to get an athlete to their best. To all the staff I have worked with over the years, thank you for pushing me to be my best, and for creating an elite environment. They work so hard behind the scenes to make our dreams come true.  

“Thank you to the Australian Cycling Team for believing in me, especially in the last four years with Simon Jones at the helm, making sure we were doing everything possible to put ourselves in a position for medals.  

“Thank you to my teammates, both past and present. I've made some friendships that will last a lifetime, and we have shared some amazing experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. I cannot wait to see what this team does in Tokyo-look out.  

“To my coach Nick. Thanks for always putting the person before the athlete. This has helped not only me, but the whole team be the best person they can be, which then carries over onto the bike. It was an absolute honour to have you by my side through this journey. 

“A huge thank you to the supporters who have followed my journey. I love reading your messages of support, and racing in front of the roar of a home crowd- it still gives me goosebumps. 

“My family and friends. For following me around the world and sharing in the highs and lows and chasing the dream with me. I couldn't have done this without you”.  

Morton - Career Snapshot  
​ 

• 4x World Champion (Elite – 2019; Para – 2011, 2012 x 2)  
• 4x Commonwealth Games gold (2018 – 3; 2014 - 1) 
• 2x Olympian (Rio 2016; Named to Tokyo 2020 team prior to retirement)  
• 13x National Champion (Elite) 
• 2012 Paralympic Games gold medalist (Tandem Pilot for Felicity Johnson)  
• Current Australian record holder (with McCulloch) Team Sprint (32.255seconds) 

The Australian Cycling Team is seeking one or two contractor(s) to take on the role of Elite Road Co-Ordinator (Men’s and Women’s roles).

The successful applicant(s) will need to be based in Europe with the role to be on an interim basis for the period leading into the Tokyo Olympics.

These roles will provide a conduit between professional riders, their key support, professional teams and the Australian Cycling Team management and performance support staff in the lead up to the Tokyo Olympics.

It is anticipated that these roles will require a maximum commitment of 1-2 day per week.

We are seeking people who are highly connected and respected within the men’s and women’s elite road racing environment, who will ensure regular communication channels are in place, and support implementation of actions to support our objectives.

Cycling Australia can confirm Bree Wilson (Roxsolt Attaquer) has been added to the Cycling Australia National Team to contest the 2020 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships.

The Esports Championships will take place on Zwift, the global online training and racing platform, from 8-9 December 2020 and will see athletes race virtually from their home or training centre. The two categories – Men Elite and Women Elite – will compete over the same route and distance on the Watopia course.

The inaugural winners will win the prestigious rainbow jersey which they will be able to wear during any sanctioned cycling esports events in 2021.

For more information on the 2020 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships, visit the UCI website. 
​
Australian National Team

Women’s 

• Justine Barrow (VIC/Roxsolt Attaquer) 
• Sarah Gigante (VIC/Team TIBCO - SVB) 
• Jessica Pratt (QLD/Canyon-SRAM) 
• Bre Vine (ACT/StepFWD Suzuki) 
• Vicki Whitelaw (ACT/Sydney Uni Staminade) 
• Bree Wilson (Roxsolt Attaquer)

​Men’s

• Benjamin Hill (ACT/Team BridgeLane) 
• Freddy Ovett (VIC/Israel Cycling Academy) 
• Cooper Sayers (SA/Nero Continental) 
• Jay Vine (ACT/Nero Continental) 
• Cameron Wurf (TAS/INEOS Grenadiers)

Cycling Australia is pleased to announce ten athletes have been selected to the Australian National Team to contest the 2020 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships.

The Esports Championships will take place on Zwift, the global online training and racing platform, from 8-9 December 2020 and will see athletes race virtually from their home or training centre. The two categories – Men Elite and Women Elite – will compete over the same route and distance on the Watopia course.

The inaugural winners will win the prestigious rainbow jersey which they will be able to wear during any sanctioned cycling esports events in 2021.

The ten athletes were selected in alignment with the CA selection criteria and the UCI event criteria requirements: performance in UCI Road events, performance in ESport events, riders registered or eligible to be registered in the Domestic or Registered Testing Pool.

The Australian Team includes UCI WorldTour riders Cameron Wurf (TAS/INEOS Grenadiers), Jessica Pratt (QLD/Canyon-SRAM), and reigning road time trial National champion Sarah Gigante (VIC/Team TIBCO - SVB).

“It’s an honour to be representing Australia at my first elite World Championship, and I am especially excited to see what the very first virtual championship will be like,” said Gigante, 19, who represented Australia as a junior in 2018. “2020 has been a rollercoaster, and while I know there are much bigger problems in the world right now, I’ve missed racing my bike. 

“I’ve been riding on Zwift almost every day over the past few months, and I’ve also taken part in a few events with my team, Team Tibco-Silicon Valley Bank. 

“So hopefully, with my Level 50 Zwift experience, I will be able to play a solid part in the Aussie team’s race plan come December!”

Other selections include 2020 Cycling Australia National Racing Series champion Jay Vine (Nero Continental) and wife Bre Vine (StepFWD Suzuki), who finished second overall in the women’s series.

Israel Cycling Academy’s Freddy Ovett (VIC), Team BridgeLane’s Benjamin Hill (ACT) and Nero Continental’s Cooper Sayers (SA) complete the men’s selections. 

Making a return to the national team for the first time since 2011 is four-time World Championship representative Vicki Whitelaw (ACT/Sydney Uni Staminade). 2020 Road National Championship silver medallist Justine Barrow (VIC/Roxsolt Attaquer) rounds out the women’s selections. 

“In a challenging year, Esports has provided riders with an opportunity to continue to train and compete at all levels, resulting in a virtual cycling participation and racing boom,” said Steve Drake, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Cycling Australia.

“The Esports World Championships will provide another opportunity for Australian athletes to test themselves against the best in the world and compete for a rainbow jersey.”

For more information on the 2020 UCI Cycling Esports World Championships, visit the UCI website. 

Australian National Team

Women’s 

• Justine Barrow (VIC/Roxsolt Attaquer) 
• Sarah Gigante (VIC/Team TIBCO - SVB) 
• Jessica Pratt (QLD/Canyon-SRAM) 
• Bre Vine (ACT/StepFWD Suzuki) 
• Vicki Whitelaw (ACT/Sydney Uni Staminade) 

​Men’s

• Benjamin Hill (ACT/Team BridgeLane) 
• Freddy Ovett (VIC/Israel Cycling Academy) 
• Cooper Sayers (SA/Nero Continental) 
• Jay Vine (ACT/Nero Continental) 
• Cameron Wurf (TAS/INEOS Grenadiers)

Australia's Michael Matthews (Team Sunweb) took seventh in the punishing men's road race at the 2020 UCI Road World Championships in Italy. 

Julian Alaphilippe (France) won gold and the rainbow jersey after launching a solo attach on the penultimate lap, with Wout Van Aert (Belgium) and Marc Hirschi (Switzerland) rounding out the podium.

​Matthews won the bunch sprint to take seventh, while Porte finished 25th. 

​"Really impressive ride by all of the boys, It was a super hard course and as a result, pretty much, there wasn't a whole lot of tactics and it was just a race of survival and attrition," said Simon Clarke (EF Pro Cycling) ​ after contesting his tenth World Championship road race. "In terms of execution, I think the team rode great. We had quite a young group with maybe less experienced than normal, but everyone stepped up and did a super great job."

One hundred seventy-seven​ riders set out in the 258km race which took in nine 28-kilometre passes of a circuit located around the motorsport track in Imola. The race was set to be decided on the tough climbs of Mazzolano and the Cima Gallisterna which punctuated the 5000m of elevation.

Dual career road race medalist Michael Matthews (Team Sunweb) and Richie Porte (Trek-Segafredo), fresh off his Tour de France podium celebration, would spearhead the Australian team.

Veterans Simon Clarke (EF Pro Cycling) and Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott), plus Chris Hamilton (Team Sunweb), Damien Howson (Mitchelton-Scott), Nicholas Schultz (Mitchelton-Scott) and debutant Jai Hindley (Team Sunweb) would support the pair.

A group of seven broke away at the start, and after establishing a lead of five minutes over the next five laps, they were caught by a surging peloton.

Superb team roles from Nick Schultz, Damian Howson and veteran Simon Clarke - in his tenth World Championship men’s road race - delivered Matthews and Porte to the front group to contest the decisive final few laps. 

On the penultimate lap, recently crowned Tour de France champion Tadej Pogacar launched a solo attack which splintered the peloton across the circuit.

As the peloton chased the Slovenian on the final lap, numbers favoured the French, Belgian and Italian teams and they reeled in Pogacar with 20 kilometres remaining.

The pace continued to lift, and with peloton exploding up the final climb, Porte lost touch with the front group.

The rainbow jersey move came inside the final ten kilometres when Alaphilippe went clear, with Mathews unable to join the chasing group of five riders in the hunt for the medals. 

​Matthews won the bunch sprint to take seventh, while Porte finished 25th. 

"We looked after our leaders knowing that that the key to the race today was delivering them to the final lap and as fresh as possible," said Clarke. "Bling (Mathews) and Richie (Porte) really committed in that going into that last lap and came pretty close to getting over that last climb and really delivering, going close to winning at least a medal. 

"Bling was kind of hoping for a little bit better considering he was so close to getting over the top for that last climb with the front guys. 

"But in hindsight, it was a super ride what he was able to achieve nonetheless, and all the other guys from Durbo and Chris Hamilton in Schultzy and Damo and Jai were all super key in helping to deliver those two guys into the last lap as fresh as possible.

"That was the reason they (Mathews and Porte) were able to go so well," added Clarke.

Lucy Kennedy was Australia’s best place finisher in 28th overall in a tough women’s road race at the 2020 UCI Road World Championships in Imola, Italy which was won by Dutch rider Anna Van Der Breggen. 

On the eve of the Championships, two-time road race medallist Amanda Spratt (Mitchelton-Scott) was forced out after injuries sustained in a crash in the Giro Rosa earlier in the month.

Tiffany Cromwell (Canyon–SRAM) came in to replace Spratt and joined Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott), Brodie Chapman (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope), Lucy Kennedy (Mitchelton-Scott), Shara Marche (nee Gillow) (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope), Rachel Neylan (Cronos Casa Dorada Women Cycling) and Sarah Roy (Mitchelton-Scott). 

145 riders set out on the 143km race featured five laps of an undulating 28.km circuit with two punishing climbs and 2,800m of elevation. The climbs up Mazzolano (2.8km at an average of 5.9%, with 13% slopes at the bottom) and Cima Gallisterna (2.7km at 6.4% and a maximum of 14%) quickly splintered the peloton.

The race tempo lifted in the third lap, with a move from Grace Brown followed by a group of nine riders which established a gap of over two minutes. 

The challenging climbs splintered the peloton over the next few laps and on the penultimate lap, Van Der Breggen launched her winning attack. She rode the final 40km solo to win the rainbow jersey and become just the second woman to win both the time trial and road race in the same year. 

Annemiek van Vleuten (Netherlands) outsprinted Elisa Longo Borghini (Italy) to take the silver medal and Marianne Vos finished 4th (+2’01’’) to complete the Dutch domination. 

It was a superb effort from Roy and Cromwell who set the pace at the front of the main bunch during the race as they attempted to protect key riders Kennedy and Chapman up the climbs. 
​
Kennedy finished in the main bunch, three minutes behind Van Der Breggen, with Chapman in 32nd and Neylan 51st. Roy finished 68th and Brown 91st. 

Full Results.

Lucy Kennedy

I'm content with my ride, being there still at the pointy end, but of course, left wanting more. This was my first time being a protected rider in a big one day race and I come away with mainly positive feelings about it.  I was really calm throughout the race thanks to all my teammates, Roy and Tiff in particular, who are exceptional in navigating the bunch. 

We were really cohesive as a team, often riding together and communicating well on a course that wasn't easy to do so. Brodie and I did our best to stay in the mix, but couldn't quite go with the pace up the second climb on each of the last two laps.

It was a very different approach to recent years and what we were expecting, with the late withdrawal of Spratty. Of course, we really missed her, but can be proud of how we conducted ourselves.

Sarah Roy

It’s so great that Imola managed to pull this event off! The race was tough. We knew it would be but it was a particularly challenging course with the fairly narrow fast roads with all the twists and turns and two very steep climbs - it was difficult to do all the things: eat, drink, position well, communicate and ride with your team mates but on the whole, we managed to tick off most of our process goals as a team. 

We definitely felt the absence of Spratty and I’m sad for her as this is a course well suited to her. I think for sure she would have been right in the mix again. 

Tiffany and I rode hard on the front to reduce the gap by about one minute and then we were out the back of the race with Brodie and Lucy in good position for those last two laps. They did really well to work together and stay with the first group but just lost touch near the end. Super tough day out but we did our best. 

Personally, I am satisfied with my ride for where I am at physically right now. I think I supported Lucy well as my person today, and It’s always really nice when you can do your job plus a little bit more. I’m really happy my dig on the front during lap four had an impact on the race and helped the team.

Australian Cycling Team #AusCyclingTeam 

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Men’s Road Race 

The Men’s Road Race will be contested on Sunday and will feature 5,000m of total climbing across 258.2km.

• Simon Clarke (EF Pro Cycling) 10th elite road race 
• Michael Matthews (Team Sunweb) 7th elite road race 
• Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott) 5th elite road race 
• Richie Porte (Trek-Segafredo) 3rd elite road race
• Chris Hamilton (Team Sunweb) 2nd elite road race
• Damien Howson (Mitchelton-Scott) 2nd elite road race 
• Nicholas Schultz (Mitchelton-Scott) 2nd elite road race
• Jai Hindley (Team Sunweb) Debut 

Watch Live

Sunday 27 September 
Men's Elite Road Race - 1750 AEST 
​SBS On Demand - switch to SBS VICELAND at 22:30

Two-time defending champion Rohan Dennis (Ineos Grenadiers) finished fifth and Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott) fifteenth in the men’s time trial at the 2020 UCI Road World Championships in Italy on Friday. 

The world’s best set a fast pace over the 31.7-kilometre loop around the Imola Autodrome with four-time national champion Durbridge posting the second-fastest time of the day with his ride, despite the heavy wind and rain which battered the riders and the course early in the day. ​

Dennis, who claimed the crown in 2018 and 2019, was chasing a historic third consecutive crown and a place on the honour rolls next to Germany's Tony Martin (2011-12-13) and fellow Australian Michael Rogers (2003-04-05). 

The final rider to take to the course, Dennis was second fastest after 14.9km, twenty seconds behind his Ineos Grenadiers teammate Filippo Ganna who blitzed his home track with the fastest time of 35 minutes 54.10 seconds.

Dennis fought to the line, but would eventually finish 39-seconds behind Ganna who became the first Italian to claim a time trial Road World Championships. Dennis was quick to congratulate Ganna on his achievement.

The podium was completed by Belgium's Wout van Aert and Switzerland’s Stefan Küng.

The Championships continue with the road races on the weekend. 

2020 Australian Team 

Saturday 26 September - Women’s Road Race - Live on SBS from 2035 AEST 

• Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Tiffany Cromwell (Canyon–SRAM)
• Brodie Chapman (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope)
• Lucy Kennedy (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Shara Marche (nee Gillow) (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope)
• Rachel Neylan (Cronos Casa Dorada Women Cycling) 
• Sarah Roy (Mitchelton-Scott)

Sunday 27 September - Men’s Road Race - Live on SBS from 1750 AEST

• Simon Clarke (EF Pro Cycling)
• Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Chris Hamilton (Team Sunweb) 
• Jai Hindley (Team Sunweb)
• Damien Howson (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Michael Matthews (Team Sunweb)
• Richie Porte (Trek-Segafredo)
• Nicholas Schultz (Mitchelton-Scott)

Watch Live

Saturday 26 September
Women's Elite Road Race - 2035 AEST 
SBS On Demand - switch to SBS VICELAND at 22:30 

Sunday 27 September 
Men's Elite Road Race - 1750 AEST 
​SBS On Demand - switch to SBS VICELAND at 22:30

Australian Cycling Team #AusCyclingTeam 

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• Facebook - @AustralianCyclingTeam
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• Twitter - @AusCyclingTeam

Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott) produced a stunning ride to claim a top five finish in the time trial at the 2020 UCI Road World Championships in Imola, Italy. 

"There's always that little hope hidden away that you can like win even if though it's your first World Champs, I was realistically aiming for top 10, so I'm really happy with the results," said Brown, 28, in her debut World Championship time trial. "This is pretty epic. It's sort of the first time that I've really been able to step up on my own accord and ride for myself and show where I stand against the best girls in the world. 

"I always believed that I could be up there with them. But now I can show that with a result."

Brown launched from the start gate to cover the 31.7km course in a time of 41mins 21.3seconds, the fastest time of the day to put her in the hot seat. 

However, Anna van der Breggen (NED) would eclipse the Australian's time and claim the rainbow jersey in a winning time of 40mins 20secs, 15 seconds ahead of Marlen Reusser (Switzerland), with Ellen van Dijk (Netherlands) a further 16 seconds behind. 

"I was just wanting to go out and ride my fastest race and not worry too much about everyone else," said Brown. "I only got the info that I was up once when Ellen van Dyk when I went through the final checkpoint. It was just a bit of a confidence boost going into the last five kilometres. 

"I had a time in mind that I came in under and I really wanted to push super hard in the first half because it was into a headwind. And I believe that that's where the race was won or lost, really. I think I managed to pace the race, to my strength and to the course."

Brown, a former runner, began her cycling journey in 2015 when, after multiple Cycling Australia National Road Series victories and fifth overall at the 2018 Tour Down Under, Brown was awarded 2018 Amy Gillett Foundation Scholarship. 

In 2018, Brown went on to make her Australian Team debut at the UCI Road World Championships and would contest a host of WorldTour events for Women's WorldTour pro team Mitchelton-Scott. In 2019, Brown claimed the Australian time trial title and a stage of the Santos Tour Down Under but was forced out of the 2019 World Championships due to injury.
 
"We're not here just to participate we're here to be the best and that's what we're trying to do," said Brown, who claimed dual medals at the 2020 Cycling Australia Road National Championships with time trial silver and road race bronze. 

"I think it's a common thing amongst elite athletes to have that belief that you can do something special otherwise we wouldn't be here at all. I think you've got to have that belief to push yourself." 

Brown will now take her place in Saturday's women's road race in an Australian team with Tiffany Cromwell (Canyon–SRAM), Brodie Chapman (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope), Lucy Kennedy (Mitchelton-Scott), Shara Marche (nee Gillow) (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope), Rachel Neylan (Cronos Casa Dorada Women Cycling) and Sarah Roy (Mitchelton-Scott). 

Amanda Spratt (Mitchelton-Scott) was forced out after injuries sustained in a crash in the Giro Rosa.

"We've built up behind Spratty, and it always been the plan to read for her as our sole leader. So it's a bit of a shake-up to take her out of the equation. But, I think we can use all the strengths that we have amongst us to ride a really smart race. 

"Personally, I haven't had the chance to like, go out around the road course get with the other girls. But I'll be looking at that tomorrow. I'm sure Gene's got to get a good plan in store for us."​

Cycling Australia regrets to advise that Amanda Spratt (Mitchelton-Scott) has not fully recovered from injuries sustained in a crash in the Giro Rosa on September 17, and accordingly will be unable to compete in the 2020 UCI Road World Championships Women’s Road Race in Imola this Saturday 26 September.

Spratt will be replaced by Tiffany Cromwell (Canyon–SRAM). Cromwell’s selection will be her tenth World Championships women’s road race. The experienced Cromwell boasts two top ten finishes, most recently placing fifth in 2014. 

“Right now it feels pretty devastating that I am not well enough to be able to race the Worlds. My shoulder is recovering well but unfortunately, my concussion still needs some time,” said Spratt, a dual World Championship medallist (2019 bronze and 2018 silver) in the road race. 

“The Worlds was a huge target so it’s hard to come to terms with knowing the form was exactly where it needed to be. But at the same time I am grateful that I have a team around me that prioritise my health and wellbeing. 

“Even though I won’t be on the start line, I still feel part of the Aussie team and I can’t wait to support and cheer for the team on Saturday. It’s a really tough and technical course so I think it can still suit our riders well so I only wish every bit of success to the girls. My previous worlds success would not have been possible without all of their support so it will be exciting to see chances taken this year to go for a result.

“2020 has definitely been full of challenges but I know I can bounce back stronger with some time.”

The 2020 World Championships format will feature four events in the elite categories. The Championships’ challenging road race routes will see the men take on 5,000 metres of climbing on a 259.2km course, while the women will tackle 2,750 metres of climbing over their 144km course. The time trial course will feature a flat 32km circuit.

SBS On Demand / Viceland will broadcast the elite women's and men's time trial and elite women's and men's road races.

2020 Australian Team 

Women’s Road Race

• Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Tiffany Cromwell (Canyon–SRAM)
• Brodie Chapman (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope)
• Lucy Kennedy (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Shara Marche (nee Gillow) (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope)
• Rachel Neylan (Cronos Casa Dorada Women Cycling) 
• Sarah Roy (Mitchelton-Scott)

Men’s Road Race

• Simon Clarke (EF Pro Cycling)
• Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Chris Hamilton (Team Sunweb) 
• Jai Hindley (Team Sunweb)
• Damien Howson (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Michael Matthews (Team Sunweb)
• Richie Porte (Trek-Segafredo)
• Nicholas Schultz (Mitchelton-Scott)

Women’s Time Trial

• Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott)

Men’s Time Trial

• Rohan Dennis (Ineos Grenadiers)
• Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott)

​More #AusCyclingTeam 

• Web australiancyclingteam.com
• Facebook @AustralianCyclingTeam
• Instagram @australiancyclingteam 
• Twitter @AusCyclingTeam

SBS will broadcast the elite women's and men's time trial and elite women's and men's road races in the 2020 world road race championships from Imola race circuit in Italy.

Thursday 24 September
Women's Elite Time Trial - 2240 AEST 
SBS On Demand

Friday 25 September
Men's Elite Time Trial - 2225 AEST 
SBS On Demand

Saturday 26 September
Women's Elite Road Race - 2035 AEST 
SBS On Demand - switch to SBS VICELAND at 22:30 

Sunday 27 September 
Men's Elite Road Race - 1750 AEST 
​SBS On Demand - switch to SBS VICELAND at 22:30

The 2020 UCI Road World Championships will begin with the time trials in Imola with two-time defending champion Rohan Dennis (INEOS Grenadiers), Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott) and Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott) set to tackle the race against the clock.

Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott) is back on the team after missing the 2019 World Championships due to injury. 

"It's super exciting. Being back on the Australian team and being able to put on the green and gold uniform again. Last year, I didn't get to line up due to a crash that happened close to the event. So this year, it's really special to be back and I'm excited to race for Australia. 

"I've just come off nine days of racing at the Giro with Mitchelton-Scott. It was a bit of a roller coaster of a tour for us. We went in with high ambitions with our leaders, but unfortunately, they both had to abandon the race after a crash on stage seven. It was a super tough race. But I think it really put me in a good position in terms of my form. And I felt good throughout the whole race. I think for the World Championships, I should be in good shape. 

"It's a pretty awesome time to course and it suits me a lot. We've got quite a flat, flat start a few corners, but nothing too technical. And then in the last couple of cases, there's three nice little pinches towards the end and a little bit more technical, but I think it's going to be a fast race, and I've got high hopes for how I'm going to perform in this race."

Reigning national champion Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott) is a fan of the Imola course. 

"I really like it, it is really fast. Quite short, but it has a lot of different aspects. I think it will be a nice spectacle, with a few nice rides that roll along the back straight with the vineyards along the side. 
 
"I think it is a good course for myself, I'm liking it and looking forward to it."

Rohan Dennis (INEOS Grenadiers) is seeking a historic third straight crown. 

"The Worlds has been on my mind throughout the lockdown. Regardless of the category it is always a great honour to race with the rainbow jersey. Every time I wear it I race to win.

"I am in good shape. It is always very special to participate in the most important race of the year, but to get a chance to fight for a win for the third time in a row and join an exclusive group of champions who have achieved this feat will be fantastic” 

Start Times / Lists 

Time Trial - Women - Thursday 24 September - Start List 

• Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott) 15:28:00 Local / 23:28 AEST 

Time Trial - Men - Friday 25 September - Start List

• Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott) 14:55:30 Local / 22:55:30 AEST 
• Rohan Dennis (Ineos Grenadiers) 15:54:00 Local / 23:54:00 AEST 

 
Watch Live

SBS will broadcast the elite women's and men's time trial and elite women's and men's road races. 

• Thursday 24 September Women's Elite Time Trial - 2240 AEST  SBS On Demand
• Friday 25 September Men's Elite Time Trial - 2225 AEST  SBS On Demand
• Saturday 26 September Women's Elite Road Race - 2035 AEST  SBS On Demand - switch to SBS VICELAND at 22:30 
• Sunday 27 September Men's Elite Road Race - 1750 AEST  SBS On Demand - switch to SBS VICELAND at 22:30

Australian Cycling Team #AusCyclingTeam 

• australiancyclingteam.com
• Facebook - @AustralianCyclingTeam
• Instagram - @australiancyclingteam 
• Twitter - @AusCyclingTeam

Cycling Australia can confirm two changes have been made to the Australian National Team for the 2020 UCI Road World Championships in Imola, Italy from 24-27 September 2020. 

Lucas Hamilton (Mitchelton-Scott) and Jack Haig (Mitchelton-Scott) have withdrawn from the team and will be replaced by Chris Hamilton (Team Sunweb) and Nicholas Schultz (Mitchelton-Scott).
​
The 2020 World Championships format will include the elite categories only. The Championships’ challenging road race routes will see the men take on 5,000 metres of climbing on a 259.2km course, while the women will tackle 2,750 metres of climbing over their 144km course. The time trial course will feature a flat 32km circuit.

2020 Australian Team 

Women’s Road Race

• Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Brodie Chapman (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope)
• Lucy Kennedy (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Shara Marche (nee Gillow) (FDJ Nouvelle Aquitaine Futuroscope)
• Rachel Neylan (Cronos Casa Dorada Women Cycling) 
• Sarah Roy (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Amanda Spratt (Mitchelton-Scott)

Men’s Road Race

• Simon Clarke (EF Pro Cycling)
• Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Chris Hamilton (Team Sunweb) 
• Jai Hindley (Team Sunweb)
• Damien Howson (Mitchelton-Scott)
• Michael Matthews (Team Sunweb)
• Richie Porte (Trek-Segafredo)
• Nick Schultz (Mitchelton-Scott)

Women’s Time Trial

• Grace Brown (Mitchelton-Scott)

Men’s Time Trial

• Rohan Dennis (Ineos Grenadiers)
• Luke Durbridge (Mitchelton-Scott)

More #AusCyclingTeam 

• Web australiancyclingteam.com
• Facebook @AustralianCyclingTeam
• Instagram @australiancyclingteam 
• Twitter @AusCyclingTeam

​As COVID-19 continues to alter how Australian Cycling Team athletes train and prepare for the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games, Cycling Australia (CA) has committed to a new BMX Freestyle Indoor Training Facility in Australia. 
 
Earlier in 2020, COVID-19 restrictions forced the closure of two of Queensland’s indoor skate parks, which also formed part of the daily training environment base for the Australian Cycling Team’s BMX Freestyle athletes.
 
With the athletes left with no facility at which to train, Australian Cycling Team staff and athletes held discussions to determine how to best support Tokyo 2020 preparations. 
 
Australia’s reigning world champion in Brandon Loupos, 2017 world champion Logan Martin, and women’s world number six in Natalya Diehm put their support behind a facility proposal.
 
In August, access to a warehouse on the Gold Coast was secured and in September, several team staff and athletes set to work with lead park builder Jason Watts from Universal Ramps on building the indoor training facility. 
 
The facility includes ramps, walls, transitions and quarter pipes up to ten feet, with protective matting and foam pits in both directions allowing riders to advance and develop new tricks in a safe environment.

​
Australian Cycling Team BMX Technical Director Wade Bootes is ecstatic that Australia’s athletes now have access to a world-class facility with leading nations such as Japan, Russia, USA and France already boasting Freestyle training centres. 
 
“Our training facility is a learning centre to create an environment to support the athletes in a safe and controlled way as they prepare for the Tokyo Games in 2021,” said Bootes. “The park layout was designed to also enhance the riders conditioning with continued eccentric and concentric movement patterns due to the pumping action back to back.  
 
“The ramps were designed to cater towards various lines between left and right at competition size and transitions to mimic international courses. 
 
“Having the Freestyle Australian Cycling Team all now living on the Gold Coast with the support of Cycling Australia, this facility will make for some banger sessions for their progression.”

2020 has been a challenging year for everyone and circumstances have made it even more important for us all to stay connected and be willing to support those around us.

Cycling Australia encourages all coaches, athletes and our cycling community to take time on Thursday 10 September to reflect on R U OK? Day and how we each make time in our relationships for asking R U OK? and remember, there is more to say after R U OK?

Australian Cycling Team staff and athletes will gather together on Thursday 10 September for a morning tea and walk two laps of the Adelaide Superdrome to highlight R U OK? Day and the importance of creating space for conversations.

#RUOKDay is on Thursday 10 September and is a reminder that a conversation could change a life. This year we are learning what to say after R U OK? so we can keep the conversation going when someone says “No, I’m not OK”. Resources are available at www.ruok.org.au

#RUOK is an important question but there’s more to say after R U OK? If someone says they’re not OK, make time to listen, encourage action and check-in. That conversation could change, or even save, their life.

You don’t have to be an expert to keep the conversation going when someone says they’re not OK. By knowing what to say you can help someone feel supported and access appropriate help long before they’re in crisis, which can make a really positive difference to their life

More on R U OK? 

People are also encouraged to learn what to say after R U OK? and download R U OK? resources from ruok.org.au for tips and ideas to help them share the message in their community.

Useful contacts for someone who is not OK - Encourage them to talk to a trusted health professional or call on these Australian crisis lines and professionals:
​

• Lifeline (24/7) 13 11 14 lifeline.org.au
• Suicide Call Back Service (24/7) 1300 659 467 suicidecallbackservice.org.au
• Beyond Blue (24/7) 1300 224 636 beyondblue.org.au
• Kids Helpline (24/7) 1800 55 1800 kidshelpline.com.au 

​The Australian Cycling team is participating in R U OK? Day with support from AIS; and the Podium Potential Academy is proudly supported by Commonwealth Games Australia.

Hear from some of the Australian Cycling Team as they discuss their insights and experiences of riding through COVID-19.

Hosted by Matt Poyner, our panel on Tuesday 1 September included Victoria's dual Paralympic champion Carol Cooke, 2016 Games medalist Stuart Tripp, four-time reigning world champion Emily Petricola and multiple national champion Hannah Macdougall.

Hear from the Victorian Members of the Australian Cycling Team who took part in a live webinar to hear their insights and experiences of riding through COVID-19.

Tokyo 2020 Olympic team members Leigh Howard, Kell O’Brien and Luke Plapp, Podium Potential Academy member Ruby Roseman-Gannon and Australian Cycling Team Lead Endurance Coach Tim Decker chatted with Matt Poyner about challenges, opportunities and the things they have learned since the COVID-19 Pandemic hit earlier this year. 

WATCH NOW

NEXT 

Our second ‘Riding through COVID-19’ live webinar will feature Paralympic and world champion cyclists Carol Cooke, Stuart Tipp, Emily Petricola and Hannah Macdougall on Tuesday 1 September.  ​

Saturday 15 August | 189 days since the crash | 136 days in rehabilitation

It has been some time since the last update and many people have been asking how Kai is doing. We’re super pleased to report that Kai continues to make strong progress in all aspects of his rehabilitation.

It’s Saturday 15 August today and we have just passed two key milestones. The first of these was 29 July which is Kai’s 24th birthday, this is highly significant because there was a time when we were not sure he would see his next birthday at all. The second important date was 8 August — exactly six months since Kai had his crash. In some ways, it feels like an eternity since the crash because of the intensity of what has been going on but it also feels like time has gone so quickly.  Either way, it is good to sit down and reflect on how the past four months in rehabilitation have been.

The last update we made was in April two weeks after Kai had arrived at BIRU (Brain Injury Rehabilitation Unit). The first few weeks Kai was there were pretty tough for us emotionally as we adjusted to the new setting. However, it was really good to finally have Kai in a place focussed on his rehabilitation and to be actively starting on his recovery.

It was at this point we were able to understand a little more about Kai’s injury and the impact it has had. As a result of his crash, Kai suffered serious bleeding deep inside the left-hand side of his brain, this created extensive stress and damage in some areas. Doctors called it a TBI (Traumatic Brain Injury). Specifically, Kai lost the ability to move the right side of his body (leg, arm, face), he was not able to speak; he could not make any sounds at all. As things progressed it became evident Kai could not find the right words and had severe short term memory challenges. Kai also forgot how to do basic things like cleaning his teeth — so has needed to re-learn everything again from zero. Furthermore, Kai lost 20kg in weight while in Canberra ICU and was so weak he could not sit or even hold up his head.

So there was a big list of things to work on……

Rehabilitation for Kai has been focussed in a number of key areas: Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Diversional Therapy, Psychology and Social Work.

As Kai became stronger his schedule became a lot more intense. Initially, he was only doing a few hours a day and he was so tired he needed to rest at lunchtime for a couple of hours. Over time he began to put on weight and was able to do better with his exercises.

We began to notice improvements in all areas, communication improved a little, he became stronger and he started to gain some movement in his right leg. The physiotherapists focussed their attention on his leg and 14 weeks after the crash Kai was finally able to stand-up for the first time with assistance. This was a major step for us and it gave us hope that he might be able to walk again.

As Kai was doing his best to recover the BMX and broader community were all doing some amazing things to provide him with assistance. Sam and Alise Willoughby started the “77 for 77” initiative which spread like wildfire and was a lot of fun. Sam started by doing 77 bench presses with 77kg, Alise did the same with 77lbs. They then threw out the challenge and suddenly everyone was doing 77 somethings for 77. Simply amazing.

It was around this time that Matt Carmichael from Channel 7 contacted us to do a news story on Kai and if you haven’t seen it, the link is here. Matt did a really nice job of telling Kai’s story. 

Kai’s approach to rehabilitation has been the same as his approach to training, he simply wants to ensure everything within his control is done to the best of his ability. The therapists have been super impressed with Kai’s strength and determination:

• … shows 110% commitment to physio on a daily basis. His immense focus and countless hours in the gym are helping him smash his goals (Physiotherapy)
• … is working very hard to regain his independence in many of his day to day activities, His perseverance with his recovery is something to be admired (Occupational Therapy)
• … is extremely motivated in his approach to therapy, both within and outside of our sessions. His positive attitude and work ethic are very impressive (Speech Therapy)

In the meantime, in typical Kai manner, he would turn to us at the end of the day and say “I’m really not sure if I am doing enough to get better”………

Four months after the crash Kai was finally able to start coming home for weekends, this was another major step for us all. He was really pleased to come back and have some home cooking, it also meant he could have visits from friends who he has not seen for some time. Kai comes home on Friday afternoons and we take him back to the rehabilitation unit on Sunday evenings so he can be ready to start rehabilitation on Monday first thing.

Having Kai at home on the weekends means he is able to work closely again with Saya. A few weeks ago he was able to watch her sprint training and help with the timing. The relationship Kai and Saya have is very special which is not surprising given the amount of time they spent together travelling the world doing BMX. Zwift Japan and First Track Athlete Management Company assisted Saya with a Zwift charity ride for Kai. The event was live-streamed on Instagram and bike riders from all over the world participated. Kai was in our garage while Saya was doing this and was really pleased to be involved.

As a family, we’re supporting Kai in whatever way we can. One of us goes to the rehabilitation unit to assist with his therapies every day. We give him extra exercises, take him out for coffee, help with his stretches and generally make sure he has what he needs. The rehabilitation unit is doing a great job but sometimes things slip through the cracks and we are there to pick these up. As time progresses we’re seeing Kai can do a lot more by himself and we can back-off a little.

Recently Kai has started playing table tennis. As you can imagine this is difficult sitting in a wheelchair and using his left hand but he is improving. We’ve been trying to work on how many times we can get the ball over the net. The first time we were only able to manage 5 times but this soon increased to 30, then we made 102 and this continued to increase. Last week he managed 284 with his Physiotherapist which was amazing and we have now set a target of 500. Kai loves the challenge and it’s great to be able to relax and have some fun.

The support Kai continues to receive is incredible and he tells us it really helps motivate him so please keep this going. Clubs are doing fundraisers, riders and friends are sending him messages on social media. Everywhere we look we can see #KaiFight77 stickers on helmets, car windows, bikes and other places. Last week the mother of a rider who Kai coached wrote and sang an amazing song about the challenges Kai is working through (look out for it on the #KaiFight77 Facebook page soon). We’re all so pleased he has not been forgotten.

Where is he now

• Speaking and communicating pretty well considering he could not say anything 4 months ago
• Moving most big muscles on his right leg
• Walking a little with assistance from people (it’s not pretty but it is happening)
• Moving his right shoulder and elbow a little
• Short term memory is improving

What’s next

• Continue working through rehabilitation
• Long process and we’re still not sure what the end game will look like.

Thank you so much to everyone who is with us on this journey.

One step at a time, one moment at a time … let’s go 

Regards,

Kai Sakakibara Family

In response to the current global COVID-19 pandemic, Cycling Australia (CA) wish to make public its current position on its international competition activities. 

The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) currently advises there is a ban on overseas travel from Australia. Australian citizens cannot leave Australia without an exemption from DFAT.

Our primary concern is the health of our athletes and staff. As such, CA will not be conducting any national team campaigns or projects outside of Australia before 1 January 2021 with the following possible exceptions: 

1. CA’s position may be reconsidered for activities in New Zealand in the event there is a government-endorsed Trans-Tasman travel bubble.
2. CA’s position may be reconsidered for the 2020 UCI Road World Championships, the 2020 UCI MTB World Championships, the 2020 MTB Marathon World Championships, 2020 season Mountain Bike World Cups and remaining 2020 season BMX World Cups. 

When considering its position in relation to the above events, CA will consider a range of factors including but not limited to the most up-to-date DFAT position, the current COVID-19 position of the host country, information from the UCI and Event Organisers, and the ability of CA to appropriately provide for the health and safety of the team and the community.

In respect of the 2020 UCI Road World Championships, CA will continue to monitor the situation. CA will only consider selecting and endorsing entries for Elite riders. Riders in these categories wishing to be considered will need to have been based in Europe for a minimum of two (2) weeks prior to the date of the start of the competition in question. 

For the avoidance of doubt, CA will not enter any U19 (UCI Junior category) riders in any overseas events over which it has entry jurisdiction between now and 31 December 2020 (regardless of any potential exceptions listed above) and will not be selecting U23 riders for the 2020 UCI Road World Championships. 

Decisions in relation to mountain bike events will be reached in conjunction with MTBA. Decisions in relation to BMX events will be reached in conjunction with BMXA. 

​CA will continue to monitor the global situation and reserves the right to modify its approach to its activities as the situation develops over the next few months.