Richardson, Edwards shine on day four of Track National Championships

Matthew Richardson successfully defended his Australian sprint title during day four of the 2021 AusCycling Track National Championships.

Matthew Richardson (L) and Sophie Edwards Source: Supplied

The 22-year-old claimed gold in dominant fashion, displaying both pure speed and instincts to see off Malaysian Mohd Azizulhasni Awang.

Richardson's victory will have him high on confidence ahead of the final day in Brisbane, where he will look to win another green and gold jersey in the elite men's keirin event.

"It’s good to go back-to-back. The legs were in there in the end for that final round against Awang," Richardson said.

"It’s awesome to race the Malaysians, they really bring something else to the track, and it’s good learning.”

Australian Cycling Team Podium Potential Academy member Sophie Edwards also tasted success in the Sunshine State, securing gold in the gruelling elite women’s omnium.

Edwards saw off challenges from rivals Alexandra Martin-Wallace and Emily Watts, and held firm for what was the first individual title of her career.

“I’m so excited, I went into today with not too many expectations – just wanted to give it a really good crack, and I’m absolutely over the moon," the 21-year-old said.

"It’s my first solo national title, so I’m so excited to have earnt it today.” 

Graeme Frislie, meanwhile, capped off the action at the Anna Meares Velodrome with a hard-earned victory in the elite men’s scratch race.

The Victorian had the crowd on the edge of their seats from start to finish as Jordan Villani, Josh Duffy and Oliver Bleddyn produced a series of attacks.

Frislie was full of praise for his peers in the end, who pushed him all the way after a frenetic event even left Blake Agnoletto, Declan Trezise and Jensen Plowright laying on the boards.

"There was a bit of a fall there at the end, but I’m pretty happy that I managed to get through it and come away with the win," Frislie said.