Three Aussies Crack Top 7 at Giro d'Italia Time Trial

Three Australian cyclists are proving their nation's cycling prowess at one of the world's toughest bike races, holding down three of the top seven spots at the Giro d'Italia.

Ben O'Connor, Jai Hindley, and Michael Storer all impressed during Tuesday's demanding 43-kilometer time trial through Italy. O'Connor surged to fifth place overall, while Hindley sits sixth and Storer seventh, making it a truly remarkable showing for Australian cycling.

The time trial was won by Italian specialist Filippo Ganna, who blazed through the course at an average speed of 54.9 kilometers per hour. But the real story among overall contenders was O'Connor's performance, finishing third among the riders competing for the final victory in Rome.

O'Connor credited his early training in Perth for his strong showing. "It reminds me of time trials that I grew up with back at home," he told reporters at the finish. The 30-year-old said the 40-kilometer events in Chidlow and Mundaring were his "bread and butter" growing up with the Australian Time Trial Association.

The West Australians have jokingly dubbed their battle "the WA Cup," with all three sitting within 40 seconds of each other. O'Connor leapfrogged Hindley into fifth place, while Storer jumped from 10th to seventh with his solid ride.

Why This Inspires

Australia has become a cycling powerhouse over the past decade, producing world-class riders who can compete with Europe's best. Seeing three Aussies battling for podium spots at one of cycling's three Grand Tours shows the strength of the nation's development programs and grassroots racing culture.

O'Connor's reference to those early morning time trials in rural Western Australia highlights how local cycling clubs and associations create pathways to international success. Those unglamorous training rides in the Perth countryside laid the foundation for competing at cycling's highest level.

The stage featured riders racing against the clock individually across flat terrain, a rare throwback format at modern Grand Tours. Wednesday's stage brings a different challenge with three major climbs packed into a hilly 195-kilometer route, giving the Australians another chance to shine.