Mark Cavendish experienced the trappings of his success today, but he wasn?t enjoying it very much. Riding in the scratch race, as a precursor to the Madison at the weekend, he was at first marked out, and then chased down.
Coming off the track it was Franco Marvulli who felt the full force of Cavendish?s displeasure. The Swiss rider had needlessly chased Cavendish in the final stages of the race when the Brit had been trying to gain a lap on the bunch, and catch the six riders who had already taken a lap, to put himself in contention for the final sprint.
But as he rode with New Zealand?s Hayden Godfrey half a lap ahead of the bunch, Marvulli and Canada?s Zachary Bell did much of the work that meant Cavendish wouldn?t catch them.
Neither Marvulli or Bell were in the group of six that had earlier gained a lap, and so were out of contention for the podium places.
Cavendish had been lively throughout the 60 lap event, but no one wanted to work with him, knowing that he would beat them in the final sprint. If a group was to get away it was always likely to be one that didn?t contain him.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
Although the British coaches had been prepared for an outcome like this, and even though Cavendish won Milan San-Remo just five days ago, he took the loss as bad as ever.
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.
Rohan Dennis pleads guilty to 'causing likelihood of harm' after death of wife Melissa Hoskins
South west round of the British National Road Series an exciting chance to showcase an 'under-represented' region, say local riders and organisers
