At Tuesday’s official launch, Cycling Australia revealed details about the inaugural Gran Fondo Championships, which is set to take place on January 9.

The event will allow amateur, age-group and recreational riders to participate on the Buninyong circuit.

Cycling Australia chief executive officer Nicholas Green said the Gran Fondo was an exciting new addition to the line-up.

“(It’s) a superb event that will provide a tremendous opportunity for the cycling community to test themselves on one of the world’s toughest cycling courses,” Green said.

The announcement follows Monday’s reveal that the women’s road race would be broadcast live, after being moved to the Sunday before the men’s race.

In addition, the under-23 women’s victor will now be presented with a nationals winning jersey.

Green said the championships, which run from January 6-10, are poised to kick off the Road to Rio in style.

“…We expect the cream of the crop of our Olympic and world championships stars to battle for the crown,” he said. “So whether you are watching at home in your living rooms or you’re one of the tens of thousands who will line the Mt Buninyong course, you are set for a mouth-watering feast.”