Almost a fairytale
21 January 2007
It would have been almost a fairytale for Karl Menzies if he had been able to pull off the win today but there is no shame in his second place in the overall GC.
Menzies went down by only three seconds and Team UniSA-Australia dominated the first quarter of the race, looking all class as their strategy rolled out. Power -packed performances from the whole team were apparent with each rider playing to his strengths and giving all they had.
To have been pipped out by Elmiger, a national champion in his own country, and a rider of huge European circuit experience is ultimately no real disgrace for Menzies.
It was always going to be tough today because defending the lead in a field that had some of the world’s top sprinters is a huge ask. I was proud of the team today. They did everything that was asked of them and some. It has been a great experience for Menzies and one he will take with him in his professional career. And all week each of the boys has worked together in a way that only cycling can demand.
I can’t wait until 2008 – the 10th anniversary of the Tour Down Under and a year for Team UniSA-Australia to shine again.
What has once again been really fantastic is the team support and they appreciate it. On every country road, in every street and town to see and hear the support for Team-UniSA is a huge boost for these athletes – so we hope to see you all again next year.