Billigence Backs the Next Wave of Champions
The Billigence U19 standings are more than just a race for points; they represent the future of Australian cycling.
These riders aren’t just chasing podiums, they’re building the foundation for long and successful careers on the European stage. The domestic league plays a crucial role in their development, offering them the high-level competition they need to sharpen their skills against seasoned riders. It’s the perfect platform to prepare for what lies ahead, as these athletes continue to hone their craft and get ready for the challenges of the European season.
Billigence Men’s U19 Standings
Connor Wright (ARA Skip Capital) has taken a commanding lead in the Men’s U19 standings, with 88 points to his name. The mountain bike specialist has made a smooth transition to the road, proving his versatility in the league. As we reach the halfway point, Wright’s lead is substantial, and his next closest contenders, team mates Ollie Jirovec (38 points) and Vinnie Manion (tied for 3rd with Lenny Griffiths of Echuca Moama CC on 22 points), have plenty of ground to cover if they hope to catch up.
Looking ahead to the final two rounds (with the U19 riders excluded from the Grafton to Inverell due to distance limitations), the ARA Skip Capital team remains well-positioned to make a statement. Both the Harbour City GP and Q-Tour offer races suited to Wright, Jirovec, and Manion’s strengths, giving them the chance to build momentum and secure strong results in the Billigence U19 standings before heading overseas. The team’s decision to focus on U19 talent for 2025 is already showing promise, with their riders continuing to impress in the league.
Billigence Women’s U19 Standings
The Women’s U19 category is shaping up to be a thrilling contest, with the top three separated by just seven points. ARA Skip Capital’s Hannah Gianatti leads the field with 48 points, but she has fierce competition from her teammate Amelie Sanders (44 points) and Praties Cycling Team’s Tully Schweitzer (41 points), who are all within striking distance as the series progresses.
Gianatti has established herself as an excellent climber and has scored most of her points off the back of strong performances in the Willunga Hill time trial and a savvy criterium at the SA Kick-It. However, Sanders and Schweitzer have both shown they can consistently perform across various race formats, Sanders with her strength on sprint and rolling stages, and Schweitzer’s solid climbing and tactical racing ability. With two rounds remaining for the U19 cohort, the inaugural U19 League winner is very much still up for grabs.
