January is the height of Winter in most Northern hemisphere countries. The pro cyclocross racers are peaking for their National and then World Championships while the road cyclists are busy looking for warm dry climates to train in.
Not in Australia! January in Australia is the height of Summer and brings their National road championships. January also features several top level pro road races. These races are typically dominated by the Australian racers due to the timing of their National championships. Also, most stage racers are just starting their training program with an eye on big races to come in May, June and July.
Caleb Ewan dominated the early season races in Australia. His sprint victories in The Tour Down Under, Mitchelton Bay Cycling Classic and The Australian Elite Men's Criterium Championship showed everybody that he may be the next top level pro sprinter to come from Down Under. We'll see how things play out in the Tour de France in July. That will be the next big opportunity for Ewan to show he may be ready to take the sprinter's baton from Robbie McEwan.
This week's matchup features a Washington Syrah taking on an Australian Shiraz in honor of the early season Australian racing.
2013 Skylite Cellars Walla Walla Syrah vs. 2014 Penfolds Bin 28 Kalimna Shiraz
