Jay Vine, a multiple stage winner in Grand Tours, is set to compete for his first national road race title at the AusCycling championship finale on March 10, 2024, in Perth. The 177-kilometre race will involve 13 laps of a 13.6-kilometre circuit along the scenic Swan River and through the city’s central business district and King’s Park. The outcome will largely depend on team tactics, particularly for the UAE Team Emirates rider.
Scott McGrory, AusCycling road championships director and Olympic gold medalist, expressed confidence in Vine’s abilities, noting that he is not alone in the competition. Reigning champion Luke Durbridge, a local from Western Australia, and Lucas Plapp, who aimed for a fourth consecutive title last year, will also be formidable rivals.
At 30, Vine has already made his mark, having won four individual stages at the Vuelta a España and clinching the national time-trial title in 2023 in Ballarat. Yet, despite his impressive resume, he has not yet secured a victory in the road race. McGrory highlighted the importance of tactics, saying, “If he’s at the finish with a couple of other riders, then it’s likely one of those others might beat him in the sprint. He needs to come to the finish solo, which is going to be really tough against teams like Jayco-Alula.”
The competition is expected to be intense. McGrory reflected on last year’s dramatic finish, where Durbridge’s extensive efforts in a breakaway were rewarded with Plapp’s selfless decision to let his teammate claim the national jersey. “It was a very romantic finish to the championship last year,” he said.
The women’s race will also feature a compelling narrative, especially if veteran three-time Olympian Amanda Spratt can secure a win in her retirement year. McGrory shared his hopes, stating, “Wouldn’t it be wonderful if she could ride in Australian colours as national champion all year in her retirement year?”
As the championships kick off with time trials on March 6 and 7, reigning champion Brodie Chapman is among the favorites for the women’s event. McGrory also pointed to young rider Felicity Wilson-Haffenden, a world champion in junior categories, as a potential challenger.
The men’s time trial may see a repeat of last year’s showdown between Plapp and Vine. McGrory acknowledged Plapp’s track record while also praising Vine’s evolution as a world tour professional. “I think he’s hungry. I do expect him to push Luke a little bit more this year,” he noted.
In the men’s criterium, Sam Welsford will defend his title on March 8, racing through the streets of Northbridge. McGrory mentioned Welsford’s recent team change to Ineos Grenadiers, which could present challenges in terms of team support. Despite this, he remains a strong contender as the defending champion.
The women’s criterium is also shaping up to be competitive, with Amber Pate, who lapped the field last year, back in contention. McGrory suggested that Ruby Roseman-Gannon might emerge as a leading contender in both road racing and the criterium events.
As the national road championships approach, the excitement builds for both seasoned competitors and emerging talents eager to make their mark.
