Downing excited for 2010 as Team Sky get together in Manchester

Russell Downing, Monsal Hill Climb 2009

Russell Downing was one of the first riders to arrive at the inaugural Team Sky get together in Manchester on Monday afternoon and despite being 31, he is probably the most excited to be there.

Downing has gone tantalisingly close to breaking through at ProTour level in recent years but never quite made it until he dominated the Tour of Ireland in the summer. His contract with Team Sky for 2010 means he will finally get a chance to ride a full season in Europe and a chance to prove he can compete at the highest level.   

Thank you for reading 20 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

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.