Madison puts Bendigo on the world map

THREE internationals, two rising stars and a Bendigo Madison stalwart offered a great insight into why cycling has become such an important part of the city’s culture during a Gallic Club lunch in Bendigo yesterday.German rider Leif Lampater, Holland’s Leon Van Bon and New Zealand’s Shane Archbold have raced the world’s best riders on the world’s best tracks during distinguished careers.Yet, the Bendigo Madison, raced on a velodrome they say is like no other in the world, has clearly won their hearts.The three riders spoke glowingly of not only the attraction of the event but Bendigo itself, making special mention of the great welcome provided by the people of this city.The appearance of such riders can only inspire young central Victorian cycling talent with Jamie Crass and teenager Toni Abbisogni on hand yesterday to prove Bendigo has young riders capable of making their own way on the world stage.The Gallic Club supported Crass last year and will this year back Abbisogni as she takes her track cycling talents around Australia.Madison founder Alan McCaig also touched on the origins of the 40-year-old cycling event, how some in the cycling fraternity tried to scuttle it and why the event has become so special to this community.The Gallic Club should be congratulated on supporting young sporting talent while those businesses who provided items for auction or raffle yesterday deserve praise.It must do much for young riders such as Crass and Abbisogni to know their community is prepared to support them.– Rod Case, editor