WA cyclist Sam Welsford secured victory in the opening stage of the National Road Series Tour of Gippsland today.
Competing for the Mitchelton Scott – National Track Endurance Team, Welsford had the legs when it mattered most, edging out fellow West Aussie Michael Freiberg in a sprint finish with Sean Whitfield third.
The Tour of Gippsland began with a criterium held in the Inverloch area, with the race scheduled to move through Sale, Bairnsdale and Traralgon over the coming three days.
With the Track Endurance riders currently on a road phase before the track world cup commencing towards the end of the year, Welsford has been in strong form. His efforts in today’s opening stage, follow on from a second place finish in the 280km Melbourne to Warrnambool Classic last weekend.
2017 has been another successful year for the reigning WAIS Athlete of the Year. Welsford added a second Track World Championship title to his collection in April this year, as a member of the Australian men’s team pursuit squad.
Further details on the Tour of Gippsland can be viewed here.
Photo: (c) Con Chronis
