Sam Welsford's cycling career is soaring, with a new contract with Ineos-Grenadiers and a shot at the National title in Perth. But it wasn't always smooth sailing.
Welsford's journey to the top was helped by a retired star, Caleb Ewan, who played a pivotal role in his transition to the Ineos-Grenadiers team. Ewan's insights and positive experience at Ineos were invaluable.
Welsford's target this week is to defend his national criterium title in Northbridge, a challenge with a massive target on his back. After that, he'll head to Adelaide for his WorldTour debut at the Tour Down Under.
His new contract is a two-year deal, a reward for a challenging season at Red Bull-Bora Hansgrohe. Despite a brilliant start to the year, including an Olympic gold medal and Australian criterium title, Welsford faced setbacks with repeated race crashes in Europe.
But with Ewan's support and encouragement, Welsford is determined to realize his potential. His European goal is to win sprint stages at Grand Tours, with the Giro d'Italia in his sights.
'It's been a tough year, but the Ineos signing was the end of the rainbow,' he said. 'I'm thrilled to be welcomed with open arms and want to be the best athlete I can be, with more consistency and wins in Europe.'
The Australian road cycling championships will see elite events on Thursday, with Brodie Chapman favored to defend her women's crown. Emerging rider Felicity Wilson-Haffenden poses a threat, while Luke Plapp aims for his third men's time trial championship in a row. Jay Vine and WorldTour star Ben O'Connor are also in the mix.
Welsford's teammates, Oliver Bleddyn and Kelland O'Brien, will also compete, adding to the excitement of the event.
