(Sean Lee is a BPL Citizen Journalist and cycling fan)

Australian cycling is not just about Cadel or Robbie. There is a wealth of talent lying just below the top level waiting for its time to shine, as proved by Richie Porte's break out ride in this year's Giro.

Johnnie Walker is one such rider, and as sometimes happens; he is more famous away from our shores than upon them. He has developed somewhat of a cult following in Europe and although he is a non-drinker, it is because of the whiskey that people remember his name.But one senses that his cycling exploits will soon overtake the novelty of his name and that a big win is not too far away.

He animated stage 13 of this year's Vuelta a Espana with an impressive breakaway that, much to the annoyance of all watching, gave the skin coloured jersey of Team Footon-Servetto Fuji too much TV time.Yet, despite the handicap of having to wear a hideous jersey, the young Aussie held on to finish a credible tenth, winning over more fans in the process.

While seeing himself as more of a one day Classics rider, results in stage races keep coming Walker's way. He has just completed the nine stage Tour of Hainen which also boasted riders of the calibre of Astana's Alexandre Vinokourov.

While the Chinese race is not quite a highlight of the international cycling calendar, it still needs to be ridden and won, and this year it became even more difficult than usual thanks to some inclement weather. Hit by storms and flash flooding the riders had to contend with terrible conditions and the added uncertainty created by cancelled and shortened stages. These difficulties had little effect on Walker who finished third in stage two and second overall to Astana's Valentin Iglinskiy on the final general classification.

The younger brother of former national champion Will Walker, who was sadly forced to retire from the sport because of heart problems, is no doubt set for glory of his own. At 23 years of age his best years are ahead of him, and with his good showing in theVuelta and his podium finish in China, 2010 has provided a firm base from which to launch the rest of his career.