Road race to destiny

The former Tamworth Cycling Club president and UCI World Championship rider couldn’t be more pumped or prepared for the contest as he rides for his career against Australia’s best at the National Road Cycling Championships starting January 4.

Spokes recently departed the Drapac Team and has been on the hunt for a new European contract, although after recently having a first child, Fin, with wife Katelyn the star cyclist has made this seventh title attempt “all or nothing”.

“It is an all or nothing sort of race,” Spokes said.

“I am going there to win it and if I don’t get a good result it might be my last race (as a pro).” 

“I don’t even like to say that but I have a young family now.” 

In his corner are the facts that he knows the course very well and it is also perfectly suited to his style of riding with over 4500m of vertical climbing in the 18 lap 180km road race.

Spokes’ best finish in the Elite race was a fifth in 2014 followed by an overall seventh place last year, although this year that extra pressure has been converted into extra training motivation as the star hits out over 800km a week in training.

“It’s a 10km circuit with a sharp and punchy 3km climb that suits my abilities,” Spokes said.

“It is in Ballarat every year and it is a good course for me so I have to be positive.” 

Also in his corner is BC Bike Shop chief Ben Clark who has come on as his sponsor and given him a top line Specialized bike to take to the titles.

“My goal is to go there and win it,” Spokes said.

“Leave my mark and hopefully secure a contract.” 

Spokes will also be entering the criterium, although is using the sprint race as more of a conditioning event for the road race four days later.

“Anything can happen in the criterium and it is good to get some speed in the legs for the race.” 

“My whole family are coming down to watch so it will be good either way - hopefully it can be something to remember.”