Team Sky's Richie Porte has won the Australian National Time Trial.
Porte from Tasmania, finished the 49.9km course in Buninyong in a time of 51.50.86 beating South Australian Rohan Dennis who clocked up a time of 51.58.04.
Third was Jack Bobridge, followed by Luke Durbridge and Damien Howson.
Porte who will lead Team Sky in the Tour Down Under told News.com.au: I’m a happy boy. I just got engaged a few days ago and now to win this time trial against such a class field — it’s fantastic.
“The problem for me last year was my health and it looks like I’m back on top of it. I’m thrilled to bits to win this and what a great podium we’ve got.
“I went back to Tassie in early November and have been training brilliantly and haven’t been sick. You can count on one hand the amount of nights I’ve had out drinking or letting my hair down.
“I’m focused, it’s a big year for me. There’s a lot of people that are questioning me and my ability, but this year I’ve got some big goals and that’s a fantastic way to start it.”
Steele Van Hoff won the Elite Mens Criterium in Ballarat., in a time of 1.01.17 beating Caleb Ewen and Scot Sunderland in a bunch sprint.