DOWNING: THE PRIDE OF BRITISH CYCLING

Russell Downing Tour of Ireland 2008 stage 4

Great Britain?s Russell Downing was the pride of the British team and of racing in Britain after finishing the men?s road race in the main bunch, close to Paolo Bettini, Alejandro Valverde, Oscar Freire and Tom Boonen.

All the other British riders failed to finish the 260km race, pulling out after various laps due to mechanical problems, end of season tiredness and lack of good form. Downing, however, rode intelligently and impressively, fighting to stay in the race during the hectic and high-speed final laps.

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ROAD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS 2008

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Founded in 1891, Cycling Weekly and its team of expert journalists brings cyclists in-depth reviews, extensive coverage of both professional and domestic racing, as well as fitness advice and 'brew a cuppa and put your feet up' features. Cycling Weekly serves its audience across a range of platforms, from good old-fashioned print to online journalism, and video.