AUSTRALIA’S highest-placed competitor in the under-19 race at the world mountain bike titles, Bendigo’s own Robbie Hucker is already planning for this year’s challenges.

Hucker, 18, was 32nd overall in a field of more than 120 in the world championships showdown in Italy.

The Strathdale-based teenager capped many months of racing and training by starring in the green and gold.

The reigning national champion in the under-19s class, Hucker said yesterday he was determined to be racing at next year’s world titles.

"The racing was a great experience and challenge," Hucker said of taking on stars from as far afield as France, United States, Germany, Spain and many more.

"The circuit was the toughest I have raced on and a lot different to what I’m used to racing on."

The battle began in paddocks and then wound its way up technical climbs and steep descents.

By the final lap Hucker was nearing 20th place, but cramps set in and he was overtaken by several rivals.

"Other than the last couple (of kilometres) I was rapt with how I raced."

After such a gruelling campaign, Hucker will take three weeks off training on the hills or the road.

"I will do some cross-training in the pool and at the gym, but just have a break from being on the bike."

The lead-up will focus on several road tours, with the Tour of the Murray, one classic the teenager may contest.

As well as his bike commitments, Hucker is a Year 12 VCE student at Bendigo Senior Secondary College.

The cycling star said the support of his parents, Adrian and Jenny, and older brother, Tim, presently racing in Canada helped a lot in pursuing his goals.

The world titles campaign was also helped along by the Bendigo Mountain Bike Club, Jackel Fencing, and Cycling Australia.