Brenton Jones has finally come out of his rivals’ shadows to capture his first Cycling Australia Road National Championships criterium title on the streets of Ballarat.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Jones had previously stood on the podium four times in the event.
The 27-year-old from Warragul timed his final sprint to perfection to hold off Tristan Ward, with Jay McCarthy third in the 40-lap (44km) dash on Friday night.
"It's been a challenge, but to finally get there is a massive reward for everyone that's helped and supported me along the way.”
He also gave himself a pat on the pack for persevering to finally get to stand on the top step.
“It’s very special.”
Jones said the desire to get the national criterium green and gold jersey had been a major driving force in his career.
“I’m one of the best criterium riders in Australia and to finally prove that tonight is fantastic. I’m very very happy.”
Jones said he hoped winning the championship would help him achieve his dream of getting a contract with a world tour team in 2020.
“That’s my goal. My manager and I are working towards that.
“A result like this is going to give me confidence for the rest of the season.”
Jones rides with a French-based team during the year, but is first hoping to get a ride in the Herald Sun Tour.
“If I get that it would a great preparation for the Tour of Oman.”
Seventy-one riders start the race, with only 12 not finishing as the bunch predomionantly stayed intact for the entire distance.
Matthew Ross won the sprint jersey, while Guy Kalma was named the most aggresssive rider.
The championships continue with the road races on Saturday and Sunday. See Page 78.
