Team LottoNL-Jumbo showed off its yellow and black kit for the first time last weekend thanks to George Bennett. The New Zealander placed fifth behind race winner Joseph Cooper of Team Avanti in the national championships.

“It was a special moment in my cycling career,” said Bennet, according to LottoNL-Jumbo official website.

“I was proud that I could wear the LottoNL-Jumbo jersey in New Zealand. It was the first time the fans saw the top and it received good reviews. The kit was well received here.”

The 24-year-old skipped the official team presentation in Rosmalen, The Netherlands, so that he could race in Christchurch the day after on Sunday.

Besides debuting the jersey to positive reviews, Bennett played a major role in the race. He was unable to stop Team Avanti, however, which had a numerical superiority and claimed the podium spots.

“A national championship is always a tough race. You could even say it’s a strange race,” continued Bennett.

“I was alone in the race against Team Avanti. On the one-kilometre-long climb, I tried to shift the game to my favour. Ultimately, we were left with six men, four from Team Avanti. I knew it was over at that point. They attacked me left and right.

“In retrospect, I’m disappointed because I wanted to win the national jersey for my new team. But I’m also realistic. It’s only January with everything has yet to begin. I came away from the championship with a lot of confidence. It’s great to know all the new things that I’ve started since joining the team are working well and I’m on track to make the next step.

“My next stop is the Tour Down Under. Afterwards, I’m heading back to Europe."