Four of the best: Dan Martin's greatest hit outs (video)

Dan Martin’s victory in Il Lombardia again showcased the Irishman’s assertive riding style and killer instinct. Taking off on a slight downhill within the final kilometre is usually a recipe for having to lead out the sprint.

But in this instance, it was Martin decisively making the most of his quick turn of speed to catch his rivals on the hop. It is thanks to this committed and this self-assured style of riding that he’s bagged some of the biggest single-day prizes in cycling.

Stage 9, Tour de France, 2013

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oV0t-RkJDI

Martin makes the most of a lull in hostilities between the GC contenders to attack 34km out, then bosses accomplice Jakob Fuglsang (Astana) in the sprint.

Liège-Bastogne-Liège, 2013

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v-CNAoDXlPM

The Irishman powers across to Joaquim Rodriguez in the final kilometre then, overseen by a panda, spanks him with an attack before the final corner.

Stage 4, Tour of Catalonia, 2013

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vcIlaLnAepE

The only survivor of an early 23-man breakaway lands Martin not only a win on the queen stage but sets him up for the overall.

Stage 9, Vuelta a Espana, 2011

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QWwAWLRFmDY

The group includes Bradley Wiggins, Vincenzo Nibali and Chris Froome all establishing themselves as Grand Tour contenders. But it’s a young Martin who seizes the moment in the sprint.

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