Hamish Mackenzie (AUS) never expected to be anywhere near the podium in the men's junior individual time trial at the UCI Road World Championships. Perhaps that's why Tarling lost the top spot to a British rider and failed to live up to the expectations of the home crowd, which was eagerly awaiting the arrival of an Australian world title holder. [Mackenzie, who competes domestically for ARA Pro Racing Sunshine Coast, said in a post-event media conference, "I'm stoked. "I started in fourth place and was on the hot seat the whole time until Josh, who was last, caught up to me. But if someone had told me I would finish second, I wouldn't have believed them.

For Mackenzie, this was his first appearance at a road world championship. It was therefore difficult to judge where Mackenzie stood among the competitors.

The Australian national champion's time of 35.18.45 was not broken for long, and over 40 riders took to the 28.8 km course. However, last year's silver medalist, Tarling, made a valiant attempt from the start.

In terms of early times, Tarling was well ahead of the Tasmanians. However, when the pace slowed at the 21.8 km time check, it looked as if the door to a world championship title for Australia was once again open. However, Tarling realized he had slowed his pace too much and powered down in the final section, finishing 19 seconds ahead of Mackenzie.

"I knew that if I prepared well and had a good day, I could be competitive," Turling said. Top 10 was my goal." Friday's 135.6-km men's junior road race bodes well for Mackenzie.

The race is 10 laps around the city. That means 10 short but steep climbs up Mount Pleasant. Mackenzie will team up with Oscar Chamberlain, William Eaves, and Cameron Rogers.

"It's a very strong team. Everyone is at a similar level and the course definitely suits us," Mackenzie said. It's a short, steep climb and it's definitely going to be a group finish. We'll work on the plan over the next few days, but I think if we pull together as a team, we'll get a good result for sure."