Four out of seven riders have been confirmed for the Team UniSA-Australia roster at the 2017 Santos Tour Down Under.

Cycling Australia confirmed today that Lucas Hamilton (Victoria), Jai Hindley and Michael Storer (both Western Australia), and local rider Callum Scotson (South Australia) will all take to the start line as part of the national team.

The riders have all had a strong 2016 season with Hamilton, Hindley and Storer celebrating together at the Tour de l'Avenir after winning the team classification, while Scotson returned home from Rio with an Olympic silver medal after his performance in the team pursuit.

Santos Tour Down Under Race Director Mike Turtur says the home ground could be an interesting site for Scotson.

“Hostworks Stage 1 in the Barossa could shape up to be very interesting for Callum,” he says.

“Callum is a local Gawler boy and he’ll be racing on his home turf. It could shape up to be an interesting day for him.”

University of South Australia Vice Chancellor David Lloyd says the University is delighted to sponsor the iconic sporting event.

“We are pleased to be part of this world class event and to support the development of high potential Australian athletes in team UniSA-Australia,” says Professor Lloyd.

“The Tour Down Under is an award winning fixture on the global cycling calendar and as one of its longest standing sponsors, we believe it helps to promote not only the careers of up and coming high potential Australian cyclists but also the qualities of South Australia and the importance of active healthy lifestyles.”

Minister for Tourism Leon Bignell says the opportunity provided by the UniSA-Australia team is an exciting one for up-and-coming Australian cyclists.

“The UniSA-Australia national team provides an exciting opportunity for Australian cycling talent to compete in their home country and the world stage simultaneously, some for the very first time,” he says.

“The Santos Tour Down Under is proud to welcome this Aussie contingent and based on history of outstanding performances from this team, expects fierce competition from this group at the race.”

Cycling Australia CEO Nicholas Green OAM says the young riders will energise the peloton and produce an exciting race for spectators.

“As the eyes of the world will be on Australia for the start of 2017 with three world-class events, our young guns are set to energise the peloton, and we are certain they will take this opportunity with both hands and give it their all.”

The remaining three riders to be selected for the team will be confirmed and announced after the Australian Road Championships next month.

The Santos Tour Down Under will be held in Adelaide and regional South Australia from 14 – 22 January 2017.