January 20 - Stage 4: Willunga - Willunga, 147km
The race today went much as I planned. A break went early and got caught almost on the climb. It was good my teammate Julian Dean was in there. For myself, once I missed the first move, I decided tomorrow is the most important stage for me. Now that I know that I have the form I can give victory a nudge.
It's going to be quite a weird race now, with the lead going to Elmiger, the UniSA team is going to have to mix it up. But Menzies is fast enough to get the bonuses and I think he has a good shot at regaining the lead in the tour. I think they will ride to keep it together for the first two sprints, so I'll have to get my team organized for the bunch sprint.
All the guys are really enjoying it here, everything is really well organized. It's also great for us to get out of France's winter - they are not too upset about the wet weather here, because I just tell them that in the past years it was over 40 degrees! Once I tell them that they agree this is much better. They really like the easy going atmosphere down here - it's a lot different lifestyle than in France, that is for sure. I think a few of them have eyed up a few girls as well, which helps!
I'm scrambling to get as much in as can with my family this week. The race started off as a high for my family and they've stayed wrapped in it. The opening win really made their week. They are here until Monday, so tomorrow is my last chance to get a win for them. I'm really going to give it a big shot because I've got the hunger for it now!
It's been awesome hearing about the fans reading this on Cyclingnews. I've heard how many hits and it's been mind blowing! Thanks for reading!
Catchya tomorrow,
Mark
