In a dramatic sprint finish, Team TIBCO – Silicon Valley Bank’s Shannon Malseed (AUS) won the elite women’s road race at the 2018 Australian Road National Championships. Malseed chased down a solo breakaway by the defending champion Katrin Garfoot in the finishing straight and propelled herself to a sprint victory.
At just 23-years old, Malseed is in her first year as a professional cyclist, joining Team TIBCO – Silicon Valley Bank in 2018. Nearly in shock on the finish line, Malseed exclaimed, “I can barely believe it!”
“This is such a dream,” Malseed continued. “Team TIBCO – Silicon Valley Bank believed in me, and I am so honoured to have this opportunity to race professionally and now to be able to wear the Australian colors this season.”
The road race, covering a total of 104.4 kilometers, was aggressive from the start. With a break up the road for most of the race, reaching four minutes at one point, Malseed knew that she had to be patient to have a shot at the finish line. “I knew Orica-Scott would be motivated to bring the break back, and I waited until they started lighting up the field to make a move.”
The field whittled down each lap, with Malseed feeling confident in the final selection. “I knew if I could hang in there over the hills, then I could sprint for a win, and I absolutely buried myself out there.”
Linda Jackson, Team TIBCO – Silicon Valley Bank Founder and President said, “I am thrilled for Shannon. We have been watching her for a while now and knew she had incredible potential. Her win this morning confirms that potential, and we’re excited to be part of her journey as she continues to explore the depth of her talent. She brings a huge amount of energy, enthusiasm and talent to our team, and we are looking forward to a terrific season.”
Ed Beamon, Sports Director of Team TIBCO – Silicon Valley Bank, said, “What an exciting start to the season. The team arrived in Australia today for the Santos Women Tour Down Under and almost immediately learned of Shannon’s impressive victory. It is giving the team added inspiration for the upcoming races. We are all very happy for and proud of Shannon’s performance today.”
Today’s victory is Malseed’s second win of the 2018 season so far. Malseed kicked off the New Year by winning the inaugural Ballarat Cycling Carnival elite women’s criterium in Victoria Park in front of her hometown crowd.
Next up, Malseed will be joined by her Team TIBCO – Silicon Valley Bank teammates for the Santos Women’s Tour Down Under, starting January 11.
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