Alexandra Manly fights her way to the top 15 at the Australian Championships

On Sunday, January 12, Alexandra Manly and Anya Louw represented AG Insurance - Soudal in the National Road Race. The race, held in Perth where all national championships take place, covered a total distance of 109 kilometers, divided into 9 laps.

In the second lap, a breakaway of five riders formed, driven by strong domestic riders who managed to keep the pace high.

The breakaway gained a significant lead of six minutes with 60 kilometers remaining. In the peloton, the favorites, including Brodie Chapman, Amber Pate, Amanda Spratt, and our own riders Anya Louw and Alex Manly, began to react. Despite several attacks, the gap to the breakaway remained substantial, and with 40 kilometers to go, it became clear that the victory would come from the breakaway.

The win ultimately went to Lucinda Stewart. Alexandra Manly delivered a strong performance to secure a top-15 finish, crossing the line in 14th place.

After the race, Alexandra Manly shared her thoughts:

"It was a really nice course in and around Perth. Unfortunately, I had a mechanical and had to do a wheel change when the break went. Anya and I worked well together, but it was a day for the break. I’m a bit disappointed, but I’m looking forward to the Santos Tour Down Under now."

AG Insurance - Soudal now turns its focus to the upcoming Santos Tour Down Under, where the team aims to build on its promising start to the season. The Santos Tour Down Under will take place from January 17 to 19. Last year, the team claimed two stage victories, and Sarah Gigante secured the overall classification.