Team Garmin-Australia has joined with AusCycling in announcing a new partnership to join the 120 strong pro peloton racing in the 2021 Santos Festival of Cycling, taking place from January, 19-24.
Led by World Tour star and INEOS Grenadiers rider, Richie Porte, Team Garmin-Australia will be joined by EF Education-NIPPO’s James Whelan and four-time track world title holder, Sam Welsford, among others.
“The quality of both the men’s and women’s teams is testament to the passion each of these riders have for racing and starting the 2021 season at the Santos Festival of Cycling,” said Stuart O’Grady, Men’s Race Director at the 2021 Santos Festival of Cycling.
“We’re really excited that Team Garmin-Australia have committed to racing at this year’s Santos Festival of Cycling and are looking forward to them bringing their experience and energy to the race.”
The team’s six-member women’s outfit is highlighted by leader and triple world champion Annette Edmondson, with rising stars Maeve Plouffe, Georgia Baker and Trek Segafredo’s Lauretta Hanson.
“We are eager to showcase the quality of racing in Australia with both the men’s and women’s teams, but I’m particularly excited by the strength, skill and experience of the women’s team,” said Kimberley Conte, Women’s Race Director.
“To bring in this quality of athlete and some of our future cycling stars is legacy to the Santos Tour Down Under.”
Team Garmin-Australia will join the teams lining up for the 2021 Santos Festival of Cycling with a field comprised of National Road Series, Continental and World Tour riders.
“The quality of teams and of the cyclists racing in this year’s event will really put Australian cycling on the map for passionate fans and cycling and sporting enthusiasts,” added Event Manager, Ryan Healy.
“We are bringing some of the best WorldTour riders and of course the up-and-coming champions to race. Fans will have the opportunity to watch great racing, but to also watch our future champions in the making.”
A release from the event organising team added… ‘Team Garmin-Australia’s participation will offer the race a dynamic element that incorporates riders from the World Tour stage, Commonwealth and Olympic Games and World Champion excellence. The combination of athletic prowess within Team Garmin-Australia is certainly a nod to the multi-faceted nature of the 2021 Santos Festival of Cycling.’
Team Garmin-Australia: 2021 Santos Festival of Cycling
Men’s
Richie Porte – AUS
Sam Welsford – AUS
Kelland O’Brien – AUS
Leigh Howard – AUS
Luke Plapp – AUS
Alex Porter – AUS
James Whelan – AUS
Women’s
Maeve Plouffe – AUS
Annette Edmonson – AUS
Georgia Baker – AUS
Ashlee Ankudinoff – AUS
Sarah Gigante – AUS
Lauretta Hanson – AUS
Neve Bradbury – AUS
