Gilmore disappointed by lack of Australian outfit, but expects change

By Greg Johnson

Rochelle Gilmore has said she's disappointed there's not an Australian women's professional team amongst the huge increase in UCI registered Continental teams recently announced, but that she expects one is not far away.

"I think we will see an Australian women's pro team within the next year or two," Gilmore told Cyclingnews. "The most difficult job for those involved will be satisfying the sponsors with media coverage, results will not be a problem!"

Gilmore, who has joined Italian squad Menikini Gysko for the 2007 season, says she hopes someday she can be involved in the formation of an Australian women's professional cycling team and help lift the sport's profile back home.

Despite the lack of an Australian squad, Gilmore believes the increase of UCI registered teams from 28 last year to 42 for 2007 shows the strength of women's cycling.

"The sport becomes more varied and competitive. We realise new talents more frequently and the races are no longer predictable," explained Gilmore of the increase's benefits. "The increase of UCI teams will make team race tactics ever so important - gone are the days where a team can rely solely on an individual's strengths to win races. Pre-race team meetings will need to cover many scenarios and race communication during the race will be the vital key."

Gilmore, who competes in both track and road racing, says she's looking forward to a successful season in both disciplines. The 25 year-old's first road race with her new outfit will be the Geelong Tour and Women's World Cup round in Australia from February 27 - March 1.

Look out for a full interview with Rochelle Gilmore tomorrow on Cyclingnews.