Like track pursuit world champion teammates Jack Bobridge in 2016 and Miles Scotson in 2017, Alex Edmondson (Mitchelton-Scott) is now an Australian national road race champion. The 24-year-old has strong pedigree on the track, with three world titles and an Olympic silver medal, but is also a U23 Tour of Flanders champion.
The Buninyong circuit used to decide the Australian national championships since 2007 is, in theory, one better suited to climbers than track riders. But, as the last three editions of the race suggest, it is a more open course than it might seem on paper.
"Absolutely speechless,” Edmondson said after the race, still coming to terms with his achievement. “It has been an absolute dream of mine. I guess every cyclist growing up, you want to wear the green and gold. It was a magical day I am not going to forget for a hell of a time. I honestly I am not sure what else to say."
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In his first season with Mitchelton-Scott in 2016, the Rio Olympic Games was Edmondson's focus and was reflected in just the 36 road days he raced. In 2017, the road was Edmondson's sole focus with 25th on his elite Tour of Flanders debut a further sign of his potential on the road.
However, throughout the majority of the season, Edmondson found himself in domestique roles or working in Caleb Ewan's sprint train. With Mitchelton-Scott holding several cards in its hand to play for the 184.3km road race, Edmondson let the team know he was on a good day. And ready for the challenge of a leadership role.
"About halfway through I felt pretty good and I was talking to Maty Hayman who was the captain for the day and I said 'I feel good, what do I need to do?' and he said if you can, just follow," he said.
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