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Bayern Rundfahrt
Photo ©: Schaaf


Hitting the big time: The Allan Davis Journal 2003

Allan with daughter Brooklyn
Photo: © Jeff Quenet

Welcome to the Allan Davis Journal for 2003. The ex-Mapei espoir has finally hit the big time with a two year contract on Spain's number one team, ONCE-Eroski. Six years with the Australian Institute of Sport has groomed young Allan from a national track champion to a cunning road rider and a potential Classics superstar. Follow Allan as he embarks on the ride of his life.

Back home in Oz, but home is now the Basque country

Bundaberg, Queensland, Australia, October 26, 2003

G'day everyone,

Allan's brother, Scott Davis in action during the World's road race
Photo © Mark Zalewski
Click for larger image

Sorry about the delay since my last diary update. It has been a enjoyable end of season after having a break from racing in the middle of the season and resuming racing at HEW Cyclassics World Cup in Hamburg, having raced a fairly consistent race program since then.

After doing a lot of kilometres but not much racing, I felt had a good base to race aggressively till the World's in Canada, but unfortunately for me, it wasn't enough to snag another win. Anyway, I was happy with my result at the World's [Allan finished in 12th place as the best-placed Australian rider - Ed], and Mick Rogers silver medal in the time trial was a great ride, not to mention his help in the road race - he was unbelievable!

Now back home in Oz, it is great to catch up with family and have a rest for a little while, although now I've got to deal with those bloody Magpies swooping my helmet off! But I must say home is the Basque country for my family and I now; it feels like a working holiday here in Australia.

Starting on November 3 and going through to Nov 8 is the Tour of Queensland in my home town of Bundaberg. Unfortunately, I cannot ride and I am very disappointed being in my home town and all and racing in front of home crowds, but the decision had to be made between the Tour organiser John Craven and Manolo Saiz, my team director. The timing of the race is right in the middle of my break from racing and could delay my progress for the following season, so I must respect my team and Manolo's wishes. That is why I am not racing here, not because of appearance money - which I happened to hear on local television the other day here in Bundaberg!

All the best and regards,
Alby

Results from the 2003 World Road Championships