Three-peat for Scotson as U23 men sizzle in Buninyong time trial

Olympic silver medallist Callum Scotson (SA/Mitchelton-BikeExchange) won his third consecutive Under 23 national time trial crown, dislodging team-mate Samuel Jenner (NSW/ Mitchelton-BikeExchange) from the hot-seat in an exciting finale as the riders battled in hot Buninyong conditions.
 
After from his brother Miles’ 2015 victory, Scotson won the race in both 2016 and 2017 before again asserting his dominance once more on day two of the 2018 Fed Uni Road National Championships.
 
“It feels great,” exclaimed a jubilant Scotson. “It is my last year in the under 23s, I have won it the last two years, and there was a bit of pressure. I did not really think about it, but it is really a relief when you get across the line and you are in first place again.”
 
Technical difficulties with Scotson’s race radio meant he was unaware about the timing of his opponents, though he was untroubled by the lack of information.
 
“You have to put out your best ride regardless,” he said. “I know what time trials are like, you can’t count out anyone. Coming home I knew there would be other people pushing it and I would have to get everything out of myself.”
 
After three years dominating his age category, Scotson will step up to the elite classification in 2019. Asked about the prospect of racing against the likes of Richie Porte (TAS/BMC Racing Team) and Rohan Dennis (SA/BMC Racing Team), the 21-year-old was excited to test himself against the best.
 
“I like the fact that you are stepping up,” he said. “When you move from U19 to U23 you have a little bit of hunger to come out and prove yourself against those top guys. I am now ready and looking forward to the seniors.”
 
Minutes before Scotson crossed the line, Jenner had stormed into the hot seat with an impressive ride on the 29.5 kilometre course, unseating bronze medallist Jason Lea (VIC/Bennelong SwissWellness Cycling Team p/b Cervelo) who had spent most of the afternoon atop the standings.
 
“I am pretty happy actually,” admitted Armidale-born Jenner. “I came here for a top five result being modest but to come away with a second – I am stoked.”
 
Jenner launched a stunning solo attack to win the 2017 under 23 national road race title, and after his strong time trial performance was excited by the possibility of a repeat this year. “I feel stronger on the road bike than on the time trial bike and obviously I proved today that I am in a good position to win it again,” he said.