LEADING Australian cycling presenter Mike Tomalaris says Ballarat’s enthusiasm, dedication and commitment to elite cycling makes it the perfect venue for the nationals each year.
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Mr Tomalaris has been covering the Cycling Australia Road National Championships in Ballarat for more than a decade, including its two-year sojourn in South Australia, and said the event just seemed to fit best in Ballarat.
“There’s a lot of controversy about the course being so hilly and favouring climbers and arguments that other states should get a chance to host the nationals but when Ballarat shows such dedication and enthusiasm, why not keep it here,” Mr Tomalaris said.
“The two years the championships were in South Australia, it didn’t quite work the same, people didn’t quite get behind it – they already had a major race, the Tour Down Under.
“It’s the perfect fit for Ballarat.”
Mr Tomalaris said Australian cycling success captured the nation’s imagination, drawing more interest each year.
SBS will broadcast the elite men’s road race live on national television for a second consecutive year with commentary from Phil Liggett.
The broadcast will feature a series of vignettes, showcasing Ballarat’s shopping, and budding cafe and restaurant scene. while iconic sites such as Lake Wendouree, the Arch of Victory, Sturt Street and Buninyong will be backdrops to racing.